The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč: research, conservation and museological presentation

Tvrtković, Loredana. (2018). The Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč: research, conservation and museological presentation. Diploma Thesis. Filozofski fakultet u Zagrebu, Department of Art History
Department of Information Science. [mentor Špikić, Marko and Stublić, Helena].

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Abstract

Episcopal complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč constitutes one of the best preserved complexes of early Christian architecture in the world. Due to its distinctive features and its state of preservation the monument was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. The aim of this thesis is to identify and list conservation interventions and suggest possible ways of its presentation to the general public. Despite constant regime changes in Poreč throughout history, the basilica, atrium, memorial chapel and episcopal palace have remained almost completely preserved, with their original functions. The Basilica was erected in the 6th century by Bishop Euphrasius and decorated with mosaics and marble columns, which are considered to be outstanding examples of Byzantine art. Bishop Euphrasius decided to build the Basilica on the site of older Roman and ecclesiastical structures. Today it attracts a large number of tourists. The complex did not undergo any major transformations during the Middle Ages, probably due to no means. The 19th century marked the beginning of historical research into the complex and its restoration. At the time the mosaics in the apse were restored. In the first half of the 20th century archaeological research was conducted and the memorial chapel was restored. The aim was to bring back the original appearance to the Basilica. In the middle of the 20th century a great deal of effort was put into solving the construction problems and stopping the deterioration. In the last two decades two big projects have been conducted - the reconstruction of the bishop’s palace and the presentation of the complex as a coherent whole. The second part of the thesis examines the interpretation and presentation of this episcopal ensemble. Although the last project has made a significant change in the monument’s presentation, there is still room for improvement. In order to make the complex more comprehensible to the visitors, this thesis analyses the conditions for the improvement, identifies main disadvantages and based on this, submits a new proposal on circular presentation of the complex. The analysis of the visitors and the management structure has been conducted as well. The end of this thesis deals with the results of the survey carried out in Poreč among the locals in order to examine their connection with the monument and their awareness of its importance.

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