Ancient Roman Military Complex Discovered During Rome Metro C Subway Expansion
Workers Digging A Subway Tunnel Found An Ancient Roman Complex Hidden Underground For Nearly 2,000 Years
News 18
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During the excavation for Rome's Metro C subway expansion, workers uncovered a vast ancient Roman military complex dating back to the second century AD, near the Colosseum. This extraordinary find includes barracks used by Emperor Hadrian’s Praetorian Guard and has led to significant archaeological discoveries, prompting the redesign of the subway station to showcase the ruins.
- 01A Roman military complex, dating back to the second century AD, was discovered during Metro C subway construction.
- 02The site features barracks, a commander's residence, and extensive decorative mosaics and frescoes.
- 03Excavation revealed numerous artifacts, including graves, coins, and jewelry, highlighting layers of Roman history.
- 04Construction delays were caused by the need to investigate archaeological finds, leading to redesigns of the subway station.
- 05The project will create Rome's first 'archaeological station,' integrating ancient ruins with modern transit.
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While digging for Rome's Metro C subway expansion, workers unexpectedly uncovered a significant archaeological site near the Colosseum, revealing a Roman military complex from the second century AD. The site, located about 30 feet underground, includes barracks believed to have housed Emperor Hadrian’s Praetorian Guard, featuring dozens of rooms, long corridors, and stunning black-and-white mosaics. Archaeologists noted the preservation of the complex as extraordinary, with some sections remaining intact after nearly 2,000 years. The excavation, which reached depths of over 65 feet, also revealed a commander's residence, graves, and thousands of artifacts, significantly slowing construction. City officials decided to redesign parts of the subway station to allow passengers to view the ruins, marking the creation of Rome's first true 'archaeological station.' This discovery underscores the vast historical layers still hidden beneath the modern city.
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The discovery will enhance cultural heritage tourism in Rome, allowing visitors to engage with ancient history while using modern transportation.
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