Christianisation of ancient architecture: mother cities and Dalmatian provinces

The article examines the peculiarities of the processes of Christianization of architecture in the major metropolises (Philippi, Thessalonica, Athens, Corinth) of the Roman Empire, as well as in the Dalmatian provinces (Jader, Salona, Pola, small settlements and islands) on the border between them. The specifics of the religious situation in these regions and the missionary activity of Christian preachers led to the transformation or adaptation of pagan cult structures, household or residential buildings. At the same time, pagan temples were very rarely destroyed intentionally, but as a rule they became abandoned and gradually destroyed naturally, providing building material for Christian churches. The use of such building material of previous structures could be symbolic, and in some cases architectural details changed their function from constructive to liturgical. Both in the capitals and in the provinces, there was a certain tolerance when different religious buildings functioned at the same time. Christian conversions could occur while preserving the special functions of the revered place. With the advent of Christianity in the Dalmatian provinces of the Roman and then the Byzantine Empire, very conservative ancient traditions were preserved there for a long time, which allowed these lands to organically survive the process of Christianization of ancient architecture.