Domus with Egyptian and Roman gods reopens at Baths of Caracalla after 30 years
After thirty years, the frescoed chambers of a Roman domus located near the Baths of Caracalla are once again open to the public. The Soprintendenza Speciale di Roma has restored a triclinium (dining room) and a sacellum (shrine). The shrine showcases two layers of decoration: an earlier Hadrianic phase featuring human figures and a subsequent layer illustrating deities, reflecting a blend of the Capitoline triad and Egyptian worship. For the first time, the triclinium's collapsed ceiling, currently undergoing restoration, is on display. This domus, discovered by Inspector Giovan Battista Guidi between 1858 and 1869, likely had two stories and may have evolved into an insula. Archaeologist Mirella Serlorenzi points out that the use of costly pigments suggests a wealthy owner. The frescoes are now located 50 meters from their original site.
Key facts
- Frescoed rooms of a Roman domus near the Baths of Caracalla reopen after 30 years.
- Two rooms are displayed: a sacellum (shrine) and a triclinium (dining room).
- The shrine has two decorative layers: Hadrianic and later (about 50 years younger).
- The later layer shows syncretism of Capitoline triad (Jupiter-Juno-Minerva) and Egyptian triad (Anubis-Isis-Serapis).
- The triclinium's collapsed ceiling is shown for the first time, including a possible Dionysus.
- The domus was discovered between 1858 and 1869 by Giovan Battista Guidi.
- Excavations in the 1970s revealed at least two floors and a possible conversion to an insula.
- The owner is unknown but was wealthy, using expensive pigments like cinnabar and Egyptian blue.
Entities
Institutions
- Soprintendenza Speciale di Roma
- Terme di Caracalla
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Baths of Caracalla
- Porta Capena