In the heart of Grado’s historic center, in Biagio Marin Square, is the Archaeological Area of the Basilica della Corte, one of the most fascinating early Christian sites in the Upper Adriatic. The remains of the basilica, dating from the 4th century, were discovered in 1902 during work on the square, bringing to light important evidence of the ancient Roman city and its early Christianization.
Among the visible finds are sections of mosaic pavement, decorated with geometric patterns and inscriptions-probably names of donors or worshippers-and remnants of perimeter walls outlining the original plan of the sacred building. Some stone sarcophagi testify to the funerary function of the area and its centrality in the spiritual life of the time.
A careful enhancement project has now made the site accessible and readable to the public thanks to elegant glass and steel walkways, which allow the archaeological remains to be observed from above, creating a harmonious contrast between past and present.
A few meters further on, the paving of the square outlines with white stone the perimeter of the original Baptistery, with an octagonal plan and semicircular apse, visually restoring the ancient liturgical layout. The discreet and dramatic evening lighting contributes to making this place even more evocative, transforming it into a space of memory, spirituality and beauty.
