Basilica originates from the Greek stoa basilike, meaning royal space, which became a public space during the Roman period.
The basilica consisted of a large room, with one or several naves, divided by columns and usually located near the forum, the public part of the city.
The basilica was used as a meeting place, open to all, to discuss business and trade. This room was also intended for courtrooms or Senate meetings.
In Roman villas, as in the case of the Villa del Casale, the basilica performed the functions of a public place of reception by the Dominus and also the administration of justice in the respective territory.
