Red porphyry, extensively used by the Egyptians and Romans, is a compact rock with large red crystals known as phenocrysts embedded in a glassy matrix. Historically, the main quarries were located in Egypt, where it was primarily used for making sarcophagi and pharaonic statues, and, after Augustus' conquest, it was also imported to Rome.
Although it was difficult to work with, it was highly valued for its color, which was associated with imperial dignity.
In the Roman Empire, it was used for statues, sarcophagi, decorative linings, and columns. In the Basilica of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, and in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, it was used to mark the emperor's position. It was also used in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance for tombs and artworks.
In modern times, similar quarries were opened in Europe. Today, still extracted and processed in Italy, it is used for paving squares and streets.
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