First-century Roman villa with frescoes and mosaics discovered near Rome after illegal excavation
By
Kristina Killgrove
Lightly toasted, lightly seasoned, mostly correct.
Summary
Archaeologists from the Special Superintendency of Rome have discovered a previously unknown first-century Roman villa at Castel di Guido (ancient Lorium), about 12 miles west of Rome. The villa, which came to light due to illegal excavations, features frescoed walls and mosaic floors indicating elite social status. The area was frequented by emperors Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius, and the villa may have belonged to a member of the Antonine imperial family.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledA clandestine excavation on the outskirts of Rome has brought to light a 'splendid villa' that may have belonged to a member of the Antonine imperial family
The remains of the first-century villa, which was previously unknown to archaeologists, include frescoed walls and mosaic floors that showcase the elite social status of the owners
The villa was discovered at Castel di Guido, a village about 12 miles (19 kilometers) west of the ancient city walls of Rome
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