Domus Aurea Reopens in Rome with Immersive Raffaello Exhibition

The Domus Aurea, Nero's ancient palace in Rome, reopened on June 23, 2021, after two years of restoration, featuring a new lighting system and a new entrance designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti. The reopening coincides with the exhibition 'Raffaello e la Domus Aurea. L'invenzione delle grottesche' in the Sala Ottagona, curated by Vincenzo Farinella and Alfonsina Russo with Stefano Borghini and Alessandro D'Alessiola, promoted by the Parco archeologico del Colosseo and produced by Electa. The exhibition explores the rediscovery of ancient grotesque paintings, first unearthed in 1480, and their influence on Raphael. The multisensory installation by Dotdotdot includes six interactive stations, videomapping, and sound design across five radial rooms. Highlights include a rotating astrological projection on the Sala Ottagona dome, a 1:1 reconstruction of the Stufetta del Cardinal Bibbiena, a plaster cast of the Laocoon group, and interactive consoles. The new access walkway from Colle Oppio was designed by Stefano Boeri. The Parco archeologico del Colosseo signed a protocol with the British Museum, which is hosting a Nero exhibition. Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini praised the contemporary architecture intervention and announced plans to manage the Parco di Colle Oppio. The exhibition runs until January 7, 2022.