The church of Santa Maria dell'Orazione e Morte stands across from the Palazzo Farnese and was built in 1575 by a confraternity founded in 1551 to collect and give Christian burial to the unknown dead of Rome. This plaque is one of several on either side of the entrance that asks for donations to continue this pious work. The confraternity still fulfils that task today.
06 aprile - Santa Virginia
6 comments:
While a noble intention, that's kind of creepy looking..
It doesn't look very peaceful.
DF
Hmmm ... I guess it's a nice thing to do and all, but ... yeah, creepy.
Does it have to be a Christian burial? What if someone wanted a heathen burial?
I don't know about that specific organisation, Cowbell, I would have to hesitate a guess that it does have to be Christian. But the sentiment HODIE MIHI CRAS TIBI is much older, dating back to Roman times. They were cheerful old souls, another favourite was MEMENTO MORI...
Cowbell - most definately Christian and Roman Catholic. The wishes of the deceased wheren't taken into consideration. I believe it is the same today. Again it is mostly street people who die with no known family etc.
And what were you doing at the Palazzo Farnese? huh? Went there to rehearse your "vissi d'arte"?
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