Early Christian Mausoleum - Pecs, Hungary

thingiverse

Near the Cella Septichora Visitor Centre, Szent István Square holds an ancient early Christian Mausoleum within its reach. In 1975, workers unearthed the rectangular, two-storey sepulture as they disassembled a former dam. The site's excavation and reconstruction ran from 1978 to 1984. Base walls of the chapel remain intact on the surface, making them an eye-catching feature still standing today in this parking lot turned historic treasure trove. Originally, the apse-terminated chapel hosted elaborate burial feasts below ground. Underneath lies a lavishly decorated burial chamber, utilized as a sepulture from its inception. Initially painted with vibrant artwork on its south side stood an ornately carved sarcophagus before being augmented with two more upon enlargement towards the west direction, ultimately resulting in supplemental features within this once intact chamber. Even after ceiling damage compromised visibility elsewhere inside what initially housed an intricate series of biblical scenes rendered as early 4th century works depicting crucial Old Testament narratives from distinct north wall murals; namely Adam and Eve's tragic fall and that prophet Daniel calmly sitting inside lions' dens beside symbolic Tree Of Life, against eastern panel's majestic backdrop showcasing motifs attributed to the risen Christ or more broadly speaking – His powerful Cross while near center of remaining south facade displays what stands out particularly due not solely to artistic execution.