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Ancient Roman Artifacts from Ostia Antica Displayed in Rome Hotel Lobbies After Restoration

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-08

As part of the "Arte Fuori dal Museo" initiative, three Roman artifacts from the 2nd century have been restored and placed in historic hotels across Rome. Hotel Diana features a marble head of Faustina Maggiore, while Hotel Universo showcases a marble portrait of Domizia Lucilla. Additionally, a fresco depicting Lachesi is displayed at Hotel Scalinata di Spagna. This project, titled "Ostia antica va in città," is supported by Federalberghi Lazio, LoveItaly ETS, the Direzione Generale Musei del Ministero della Cultura, and Fondazione Roma. The hotels finance the restoration and display for approximately eighteen months. Carlo De Angelis and Alessandro D’Alessio highlighted the need to present Italian heritage, noting that 70% of museum collections are kept in storage.

Key facts

  • Three 2nd-century Roman artifacts from Ostia Antica are displayed in Rome hotel lobbies.
  • The artifacts include portraits of Faustina Maggiore and Domizia Lucilla, and a fresco of Lachesi.
  • The works were restored after decades in storage at the Parco archeologico di Ostia antica.
  • The project "Arte Fuori dal Museo" is promoted by Federalberghi Lazio with several partners.
  • Hotels fund restoration and exhibition for about 18 months, acting as cultural outposts.
  • Carlo De Angelis of Hotel Diana emphasized offering guests an immersive historical experience.
  • Alessandro D’Alessio stated ~70% of Italian museum collections are in storage.
  • Massimo Osanna advocated for new ways to showcase heritage, with hotels as ideal venues.

Entities

Institutions

  • Parco archeologico di Ostia antica
  • Federalberghi Lazio
  • LoveItaly ETS
  • Direzione Generale Musei del Ministero della Cultura
  • Fondazione Roma
  • Comitato Alberghi Storici di Roma

Locations

  • Ostia Antica
  • Rome
  • Italy
  • Via Principe Amedeo
  • Piazza di Spagna

Sources