Ludovicus Posted April 21, 2006 Report Share Posted April 21, 2006 "Archaeologists have found paintings and mosaics from a previously unknown section of the Domus Valeriorum, one of ancient Rome's grandest homes." From the most recent issue of "Archaeology" http://www.archaeology.org/0605/abstracts/villa.html Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FLavius Valerius Constantinus Posted April 21, 2006 Report Share Posted April 21, 2006 I've read the issue from where this article is. The find really isn't not a breakthrough, it's just new frescoes and mosaics for archaeologists to examine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ludovicus Posted April 23, 2006 Author Report Share Posted April 23, 2006 What's fascinating about the Domus Valeriorum is that it apparently survived into post the Imperial period as a hostel run by Christians for foreigners. Here we have a building with roots in the Republic (via the Valerii family) surviving in the Dark Ages. Wonder if there are any other Roman constructions outside churches, Forum buidlings, and a few notable temples that could boast such a long existence. I'm willing to be informed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
phil25 Posted April 23, 2006 Report Share Posted April 23, 2006 I'd be interested to know the date of the frescoes etc. With rare exceptions like the House of Livia, or the House of the Griffins (buried under Domitian's palace on the Palatine) the surviving remains are of a late period - the last decorative scheme of the house. It really would be amazing if we had a republican mansion preserved. But I suspect - given the numerous fires in Rome - this might be a rebuild on the same site. No one would be more delighted than i if I am wrong. Phil Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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