Stucco decorations on the ceilings' vaults.
Mosaics with large irregular pieces, typical of the Roman elite.
The discovery occurred beneath a school in Rome and revealed a Roman residence from the 2nd century.
Stucco decorations on the ceilings' vaults.
Mosaics with large irregular pieces, typical of the Roman elite.
A group of students from a high school in Rome helped reveal an unexpected archaeological find. Beneath the school's gym, they discovered remains of a Roman house nearly 1,800 years old located just a few meters from the Coliseum.
The structure was investigated by archaeologists following repeated stories from students claiming to have seen hidden rooms beneath the building. Excavations confirmed that it is a luxurious residence from the 2nd century.
The find occurred at the Liceo Scientifico Cavour, a school located near the Coliseum in Rome. For years, various students informally explored tunnels and underground spaces that existed beneath the gym.
After receiving testimonies from the students, History and Latin teacher Claudia Marino notified the archaeological authorities of the city. Finally, excavation work began in January 2026.
The investigations revealed that the rooms belonged to a large domus romana, a high-status residence built in the mid-2nd century.
According to an inscription found during excavations conducted in the late 19th century, the property is believed to have belonged to a member of the Umbrius family. Currently, the site has been named Domus Liceo Cavour. Among the main findings are:
Frescoes with floral motifs and decorative figures.
Modern graffiti made by students and visitors during the 20th century.
The neighborhood where the school is located has enormous historical significance. According to researchers, prominent figures of ancient Rome such as Cicero, Pompey, and Octavian, who would later become Emperor Augustus, lived in that area.
However, the presence of modern constructions has hindered the complete archaeological study of the area for decades.
Experts clarified that only a part of the residence has been explored so far. The structure continues to extend beneath the school building, so new excavations in the future are not ruled out.
Additionally, the school and the Archaeological Superintendency of Rome are working on a project to open the site to the public. The initiative even includes having the students themselves participate as guides during visits.