Rome – Mayor Robert Gualtieri led a small‑group unveiling on Tuesday of what archaeologists believe to be the largest fresco and mosaic complex ever discovered from ancient Rome. The works, dubbed the “Painted City” fresco and the “Great Mosaic,” were uncovered in an underground gallery of the Baths of Trajan on the Oppio hill near the Colosseum during excavations that began in the 1990s.
Historic artwork revealed
The 1st‑century AD fresco presents a bird’s‑eye view of a walled port city, complete with a theater, temple, public piazzas and towers. Cultural superintendent Claudio Parisi Presicce praised its exceptional state of preservation, noting that while the specific city depicted remains unidentified, it must have been a prominent maritime hub in antiquity.
The adjoining mosaic stretches roughly 15 meters high and spans four decorative levels. Upper tiers resemble a theatrical set, while lower tiers echo another detailed port‑city scene that only emerged during the recent restoration.
Baths of Trajan restored for visitors
Emperor Trajan dedicated the baths in 109 AD; at six hectares they were the world’s largest bathing complex at the time, incorporating the earlier Domus Aurea and featuring innovative water‑temperature design to enhance the thermal experience. The restored site now includes a semicircular upper‑level “library,” which archaeologists believe served both cultural and athletic functions for ancient patrons.
During a trial period beginning this month, the fresco and mosaic will be accessible to the public in groups of up to 15 visitors on weekends. Officials will monitor humidity and other climatic impacts before expanding access, ensuring the delicate artworks remain protected for future generations.
Community and scholarly impact
Local scholars and tourists alike are eager to see the works, which combine artistic beauty with documentary value for the study of Roman urban planning and maritime trade. The city hopes the exhibition will boost cultural tourism while reinforcing Rome’s reputation as a living museum of antiquity.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
