Sanctuary “Ad Duos Felices”: A Journey Through Faith and Roman History

The Sanctuary “Ad Duos Felices” (To the Two Happy Ones) represents a destination of profound spirituality immersed in the beating heart of Roman history. Although the exact location of the original building remains shrouded in mystery, ancient sources tell us of a basilica and an *ecclesia* founded with love and dedication by a man named Felix. This place, steeped in faith and devotion, invites the modern pilgrim to an experience that transcends the simple act of worship, transforming into an adventure to discover the Christian roots of Rome.

In Search of the Martyr’s Tomb: A Historical Investigation

The focal point of the worship that animated this sanctuary was undoubtedly the tomb of the martyr Felix. Unfortunately, to this day, this relic of immeasurable historical and spiritual value has not yet been identified. The precise identification of the martyr Felix is a complex issue, thoroughly addressed in the studies of Professor Amore (see *Amore, pp. 257-275*). This mystery fuels the curiosity of historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts alike, turning the search for the tomb into a true historical investigation—an exploration into the past in search of clues and confirmations.

Ancient Sources: Testimonies of Faith and Tradition

The first documented testimonies of the sanctuary dedicated to the Two Happy Ones date back to the early 6th century, thanks to the *Passio* and the *Liber Pontificalis*. These ancient texts provide a precious window into the past, offering us a vivid glimpse of popular devotion and the importance of the sanctuary in the religious life of the Roman community. The dignity of the sanctuary was attributed to the foundation established by Felix (likely Felix II) precisely because of the presence of his tomb within the church. The *Liber Pontificalis* (I, pp. 84 and 211) recounts a touching episode: *rapuerunt corpus eius nocte christiani cum Damaso presbytero et sepelierunt in basilica supradicta* (Christians, along with the priest Damasus, stole his body at night and buried it in the aforementioned basilica). This act of veneration, this nocturnal translation, can be interpreted as an unintentional yet powerful act of foundation.

An Invitation to Spiritual and Adventurous Exploration

The absence of a precise location for the sanctuary “Ad Duos Felices” and the failure to identify the martyr’s tomb should not discourage the pilgrim. On the contrary, these unknowns can transform into an invitation to exploration, to rediscovering a piece of Roman and Christian history. Imagine walking along the ancient consular roads, visiting the catacombs, in search of clues that might lead us back to the site where the sanctuary once stood. Every stone, every fragment of fresco, every inscription could conceal valuable information—a key to unraveling the mystery. And as you embark on this quest, let yourself be guided by the faith and devotion that animated the early Christians, retrace their footsteps, and immerse yourself in their spirituality.

Suggestions for Visits and Research:

• Vatican Archives: Deepen your research by consulting documents preserved in the Vatican Archives, searching for more precise references to the sanctuary and the martyr Felix.
• Roman Catacombs: Explore the catacombs, places of refuge and worship for early Christians, in search of traces of devotion to the Two Happy Ones.
• Paleochristian Basilicas: Visit the paleochristian basilicas of Rome, looking for architectural or decorative elements that might provide clues about the structure and appearance of the sanctuary “Ad Duos Felices.”
• Museum Collections: Study museum collections of Roman sacred art, searching for archaeological finds or artworks that might be linked to the sanctuary.

The Sanctuary “Ad Duos Felices” continues to live on in memory and faith. The search for its location and the martyr’s tomb represents an exciting challenge—an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Rome’s Christian history and to rediscover the value of devotion and spirituality. May your journey be rich in discoveries, emotions, and faith.

Via di S. Pancrazio, 5/d, 00152 Roma, Italy