Resti della Villa dei Flavi

An absolute surprise, and worth a visit in itself, is the Cuirassiers Barracks, which houses this extremely important archaeological site. It's not a recent discovery, mind you...it was made over sixty years ago, during excavation work to build a canteen in the section of the structure adjacent to the nuns' convent (to which this area once belonged). It's believed to be the remains of Domitian's birthplace, owned by his uncle Flavius ​​Sabinus, brother of Vespasian, whose name appears in some inscriptions on the stone pillars found during the excavation. The buildings that were unearthed consist of a series of structures built against or over several sections of the Servian Wall, dating back to the two phases of the 6th and 4th centuries BC, constructed from tuff blocks. Beyond these walls, a podium and the remains of what appears to be a large nymphaeum can be seen. The underlying wall is completely covered—a rarity—with a mosaic of colored glass paste tiles, remarkably well preserved and featuring a pattern of imaginative architecture and plays of perspective. Some pipes in the upper part of the nymphaeum, the one with the semicircular pool, suggest that a film of water may have flowed over the mosaic walls, keeping the tiles shiny and vibrant. The podium near the nymphaeum is believed to be the temple dedicated to the Gens Flavia, which Emperor Domitian built and dedicated to his deified family. The site is well-maintained, and a walkway allows easy access to the refectory. However, it is a real shame that it is thus denied to tourists and enthusiasts, considering that the wall mosaic is extremely rare and stunning. If you have the opportunity, book a tour of this beautiful barracks with an interesting history. You'll be hosted by very welcoming people who make our nation proud. Need some useful info? Then leave a like and check out other reviews about Rome and beyond.