Basilica of Euphrasius p
Eufrazijeva Bazilika
Located in the town of Poreč, this
6th-century church is a Byzantine master-
piece decorated with mosaics on a gold
back ground. It was built for Bishop
Euphrasius between 539 and 553 by
expand ing the existing 4th-century Oratory
of St Maurus Martyr, patron saint of Poreč.
Although the build ing has under gone many
alter ations over the centuries, some of the original floor
mosaics survive. In December 1997, the basilica was
added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Classical
concerts are held in the church from July to September.
484 SOUTH EASTERN EUROPE
For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp502–505 and pp506–507
. Ciborium
Dominating the presbytery
is a beautiful 13th-century
ciborium supported by
four marble columns. The
canopy is decorated
with mosaics.
. Apse Mosaics
Mosaics from the 6th century cover the apse. Christ
and the Apostles are depicted on the arch, while the
Virgin appears on the vault enthroned with
child and two angels.
Bishop Euphrasius
himself is shown
with a model of
the basilica.
Sacristy
and Votive
Chapel
Past the sacristy’s
left wall is a triple-
apsed chapel with a
6th-century mosaic floor.
Here lie the remains of
Sts Maurus and Eleuterius.A mosaic in
the apseSTAR FEATURES. Ciborium
. Apse Mosaics
The Garden is home to the
remains of a 4th-century
mosaic floor from the
Oratory of St Maurus Martyr.