Between the late 2nd and early 3rd century, in the area now occupied by the basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, were the horti Spei Veteris, the “gardens of the Speranza Vecchia [Old Hope]” built by Septimius Severus (193-211), a lavish dwelling with residential structures, fountains and large green areas. Emperor Elagabalus (218-222) added the Varianus circus, the amphitheatre known as the Castrense and the baths to the complex. These were named the “Eleniane” after Helena, Constantine’s mother. From the 4th century onwards, the entire complex took the name Sessorio [Sessorium].
During this period, Constantine transformed a room of the villa into a Christian basilica, called Hierusalem, to celebrate the holy city of Jerusalem. The relics of the Holy Cross were placed inside. According to a very old tradition, they were found by Helena herself in the Holy Land.
