 The
building was surrounded by an open area of great extent, the four sides of which were terminated
by porticos which enclosed the area and the church itself.Adjoining these porticos were ranges of
stately chambers, with baths and promenades, and besides many apartments adapted to the use of
those who had charge of the place.The cruciform plan was a landmark development in Christian architecture, because it replaced a basilica plan with the centralized shrine plan.