Abstract
The case of Rome is of course a special one. But it really deserves being investigated here, because the provided examples offer a very broad range of solutions, then to be observed elsewhere. First, it should be noticed that the pagan imperial monuments were not transformed into churches, but functioned as defensive structures. And for the mausolea (re)used as churches, there are variations as to the moment of their conversion: immediately for Helen’s mausoleum, a few centuries later for the one of Constantina and both of those adjoining the transept of St. Peter in Vatican. For the mausolea holding the remains of Constantine’s mother and daughter, the more or less early recognition of their holiness is in close relation with the devotional and cultual practices in situ ; for the two Vatican examples, it has been necessary to bring relics in order to convert the previous mausoleum into a true sanctuary.
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