Roman building discovered in Villa Celimontana. Mosaics and frescoes have been preserved
Roman building discovered in Villa Celimontana
Remains of a building dating back to the Roman Imperial period have been discovered at Villa Celimontana in Rome. Archaeologists have uncovered eight rooms featuring interiors decorated with mosaics and frescoes. The exact nature of the structure has not yet been determined; researchers are considering, among other possibilities, that it was a prestigious residence belonging to a wealthy family, though it is also possible that part of the complex was linked to the barracks of the Fifth Cohort of the vigiles – Rome’s firefighters and night watch.
The structure dates back to the 2nd century CE and was built using techniques such as opus reticulatum. It underwent remodeling in later periods, and the layout of its rooms was altered starting in the 3rd century CE. The building’s foundations were firmly anchored in earlier Roman structures located beneath them.
Excavations fully uncovered five rooms, while three others were only partially preserved. It is known that the complex was larger and extended further toward Villa Mattei; however, a complete investigation was not possible within the scope of the current project. Obstacles included monumental cypress trees located in the area and financial constraints on the work.
One of the most interesting discoveries is a large mosaic featuring a marine theme. At its center lies a krater (mixing vessel), surrounded by depictions of a dolphin, a fish, a lobster, and a crab. This type of decoration alludes to the marine world and stands out as one of the most distinctive features of the uncovered complex.
Archaeologists also found fragments of an earlier mosaic floor dating to the Antonine period. Furthermore, large sections of a painted ceiling and numerous fragments of opus sectile decoration were discovered. This technique involved creating patterns by arranging precisely cut pieces of marble and other stones of various colors. The presence of such decoration indicates the high quality of the building’s interior finish.
Villa Celimontana is situated on the Caelian Hill, in one of Rome’s historic districts. The area saw intensive use as early as antiquity, and its location near significant Roman structures means that further archaeological discoveries could provide insights into how this part of the city was developed during the Imperial period.
