Caelian Hill - today

Michelle Satterfield

The Caelian Hill, also called the Monte Celio, has two levels, with arches through.  It remains in tact, and overall in good shape.  The top level is much smaller than the bottom.  The 1st level is in more of a square shape, and the 2nd is based on more circular shapes.  There is currently a church built on the Caelian Hill.  The church is called the SS Giovanni e Paolo, and makes the hill based on more religious purposes than it ever was before.  The inside of the San Giovanni is quite artistic, and spacious. The ceiling is lined with sculptures of christ, lions, and several religious identities.  There are several paintings of christ, and some Christian Saints.  The main color scheme is either brown or tan, with green splotches through.  There are several glass chandeliers on the walls of the church, in between the arches.  The building has tall ceilings, and is very wide.  Surrounding the Caelian Hill is the arch named “Porta Maggiore.”  It now goes over one of Rome’s traffic intersections, and is very well preserved.  On the outside of the walls of the arch is a “mysterious” tomb named “The Tomb of the Baker.”  Covering the tomb are sculpted ovens, and bakers instructions.