The church's floor mosaics remain at their original 6th-century elevation, while the surrounding town level has risen over the centuries.
The floor mosaics were partially covered by a brick floor for centuries to protect them until excavations revealed them in the 19th century.
The angel-shaped weathercock on the bell tower, locally known as 'Anzolo', is a replica; the original is kept inside the church.
The church's layout follows the classic Roman basilica form, featuring three naves separated by columns with imported marble capitals.
The baptistery contains a hexagonal immersion font used for early Christian rites.
The Pala d'oro altarpiece is a masterpiece of Venetian goldsmithing from the 12th century.
The Basilica di Sant'Eufemia is a 6th-century Byzantine-style church located in the historic center of Grado, Italy. It is most notable for its extensive and well-preserved 6th-century floor mosaics featuring geometric patterns and votive inscriptions. The structure was commissioned by Bishop Nicetas and stands on the foundations of a previous 4th-century church. Attached to the north side is an octagonal baptistery dating to the same period. The bell tower, visible from across the lagoon, features a weathercock shaped like an angel, a distinct symbol of the town. The interior contains a 12th-century silver-gilt altarpiece, known as the Pala d'oro. The basilica serves as the primary religious focal point of the Grado peninsula.
From the rear of the central nave looking toward the apse, or from the entrance to capture the length of the mosaic floor.
Bring a few small coins if you wish to illuminate the mosaic floor sections for a better view.
Look for the glass panels in the floor that reveal the older, lower-level remains of the previous 4th-century church.
Visit the attached lapidarium in the courtyard to see ancient stone fragments from the Roman era.
Do not attempt to walk on the protected mosaic sections that are roped off or covered by glass, and avoid visiting during active religious services.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Maintain a quiet tone, as it is an active place of worship.
