The fragmentary remains of Peter's grave were encased in copper and a shrine above it became the focal point of the new building, standing just in front of the apse. The apse pointed west, so that the rising sun would shine in through the doors at the east (later churches would reverse this orientation). Because of its size the basilica had four aisles rather than the usual two, and it was made still larger by inserting a transverse space (the transept) between the nave and the apse.