Rediscovered ancient Roman palace welcomes visitors after half a century of abandonment
Experience the grandeur of the restored 2000-year-old Domus Tiberiana as it finally emerges from 50 years of abandonment, inviting visitors to marvel at its ancient splendor once more
The "lost" imperial palace Domus Tiberiana in Rome has reopened as an open-air museum after 50 years of neglect. Once a crumbling and off-limits ruin near the renowned Coliseum, the palace, built in the first century AD and beloved by Nero, aims to reclaim its position as one of the city's premier tourist attractions.
The ancient palace, situated on Palatine Hill, the city's oldest hill, looms over Rome, serving as the seat of imperial dynasties for centuries. However, over time, the site deteriorated, leading to the closure of the Domus Tiberiana in the 1970s due to structural instability. This left a void in the heart of Rome's archaeological landscape. After a six-year renovation, the palace has reopened as a "diffuse museum," with artifacts and frescoes spread throughout the site, offering visitors a glimpse into the palace's ancient splendor.
The palace complex was inhabited for thousands of years and loved by emperors and aristocrats.
Colosseum Archaeological Park
It was an impressive sight. The Domus Tiberiana, Rome's inaugural imperial residence, was constructed by Emperor Tiberius, who merged and integrated the existing aristocratic estates on the hill. Spanning more than four hectares, the palace boasted residences, expansive gardens, temples, and quarters for the emperor's Praetorian Guard.
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The Domus Tiberiana, which served as the center of Roman power and politics, had a prestigious location overlooking the Palatine and Roman Forums, providing its residents with a stunning view of the city. It was expanded and decorated by subsequent emperors, with Nero being crowned there at the age of 16 in 54 AD.
Alfonsina Russo, the director of the Coliseum's archaeological park which includes Domus Tiberiana, and the lead archaeologist for the renovation, informed CNN that the project unearthed ancient antiquities, many of which were exceptionally well-preserved.
Russo stated that the artifacts, including bright stuccos, frescoes, amphorae, potteries, looms, terracotta, and divinity statues related to the cults of Isis, Dionysius, and Mithras, offer visitors a journey through time.
The renovation works uncovered precious finds which are on display at the site.
Colosseum Archaeological Park
"They bring to life this location formerly inhabited by aristocratic families and then Roman emperors," she stated. "There are seven exhibition rooms displaying extraordinary artifacts, beginning with those predating the original construction of the palace when aristocrats lived in mansions before Tiberius incorporated them into the Domus."
Newly uncovered frescoes in Pompeii include some of the oldest depictions of lemons, which were considered exotic in Ancient Rome, and a portrayal of a gladiator, indicating the popularity of gladiatorial games among wealthy families, according to Russo. The archaeologists also discovered a bakery that served as a prison.
The imperial palace was used until the 7th century, when it became the papal residence of John VII. In the mid-16th century, the powerful local landowning Farnese family built the luxurious Orti Farnesiani gardens on the site, decorating it with ornaments and sculptures of nymphs, satyrs, and fauns.
"This monument is a testament to history," Russo remarked. "We have restored (Domus Tiberiana) to its former grandeur, but there is still more work to be done."
Painstaking efforts have been dedicated to seamlessly blending the old with the new. A series of magnificent, reddish-brown vaulted arches welcomes visitors, meticulously reconstructed using the same materials employed by ancient Romans centuries ago.
Some elements of the Domus Tiberiana complex have been painstakingly recreated by archaeologists.
Parco Archeologico Colosseo
Russo noted that the unique architectural style sets this renovated Domus apart. Original materials were used to reinforce the 50-foot tall front arches, which run alongside the ancient paving of the palaces. Since reopening in late September, the Domus Tiberiana has attracted approximately 400,000 visitors, which Russo considers a huge success. She believes that this incarnation of the Domus Tiberiana offers visitors the most evocative experience in generations.
Archaeologist and ancient Rome scholar Giorgio Franchetti informed CNN that the reopening of the Domus Tiberiana complex in Rome represents the recovery of a lost treasure.
In an interview, he stated, "The Palatine Hill has long been the setting for Rome's political power. Tiberius likely selected this location to construct the palace due to its historical significance as the site of his family's residence. There are very few places like the Domus Tiberiana where you can truly immerse yourself in the past."
