Chi-Rho, the chrismon as a symbol of faith
Italy, Colosseum, RomeChi-Rho, the chrismon as a symbol of faith
The symbol chosen by Constantine to express his adherence to Christianity is the Chrismon, formed by superimposing the first two letters of Christ's name in Greek, X (Chi) and P (Rho).
The Cross was not used because initially considered an ignominious symbol: crucifixion was a capital punishment reserved for the lowest classes in society and slaves. Additionally, the Chrismon was evocative of solar symbolism, meaningful to both the Christians and to pagan followers of the cult of Sol Invictus, particularly numerous in the army.
With Constantine the Chrismon spread throughout the empire, definitively becoming the most important symbol of Christian faith.
It is located at the Colosseum, Rome.
Supplementary images:
Chi-Rho, the chrismon as a symbol of faith according to Constantine, located at the Colosseum, Rome
Taken on Tuesday 10th of September 2013
Device: OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.
Model: SP800UZ
Tags:
chi
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chi-rho
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chrismon
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christian
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colosseum
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constantine
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cross
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cross inside a circle
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cross on stone
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italy
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marble
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rho
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roman
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roman colosseum
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stone
Genre:
3rd Century AD
Source: Rome, Italy
Would you like to explore the origin of Christ’s cross?
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