But with each passing day this inestimable patrimony of history, art, and culture is at greater risk of being lost to posterity.
Centuries of deterioration have left the basilica in dire need of restoration.
Throughout the 12th century basilica, paint is cracking and peeling; irreplaceable frescoes and murals are decaying, having left a few sections already irretrievable; gilded frames, ornamentation, and the baroque coffered ceiling suffer from extensive damage.
Additionally, the fourth and first century levels are in need of proper preservation and presentation so that visitors can appreciate the history and significance of this rare Christian heritage site.
Currently, the artifacts of the lower levels are unmarked and unexplained.
Unless visitors are accompanied by an expert guide, they leave the underground excavations with little to no understanding of the rich Church history they encounter.
Curating a museumlike experience would elevate the understanding of pilgrims and visitors, there- by helping to make San Clemente an even more popular destination and creating an opportunity for education and evangelization.
Severely damaged fresco of St. Francis of Assisi..
Ambient damage to baroque coffered ceiling.
1st century fresco.
One of many sections of peeling plaster and paint.
Cracking and wood rot in baroque coffered ceiling..
Digitally restored portion of a damaged fresco in need of physical repair.
Depiction of one of the few restored frescos in the 12th century basilica both before and after restoration.
Centuries of adherents known as black crusts in need of cleaning and preservation methods.
