‘Lost’ Ancient Roman Palace Reopens After 50 Years
After 50 years of closure, Rome’s Domus Tiberiana, an ancient imperial palace near the Colosseum, has reopened as an open-air museum. The first-century palace, initially built by Emperor Tiberius and later expanded by Nero, now welcomes visitors after a six-year makeover.
The site, located on Palatine Hill, showcases artifacts like stuccos, frescoes, and statues related to cults of Isis, Dionysius, and Mithras. The renovation, led by archaeologist Alfonsina Russo, uncovered well-preserved antiquities, including some of the earliest paintings of lemons and depictions of gladiators. With 400,000 visitors since reopening, the revamped Domus Tiberiana is hailed as a successful restoration, blending original materials with careful reconstruction. Archaeologist Giorgio Franchetti sees it as a recaptured jewel on the historic Palatine Hill, offering a unique glimpse into Rome’s past.