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Archaeologists have discovered a remarkable mosaic that dates back to 2,300 years ago in the vicinity of the Roman Colosseum.
After five years of excavation, a complex pattern was revealed on the outskirts of Rome’s Palatine Hill, exposing a lavish dining hall believed to have originated in the first or second century.
The work is believed to be approximately 2,300 years old according to historians and is located within an aristocratic mansion near the Roman Forum. Archaeologists have been excavating the site since 2018.
The historic piece of art measures nearly five meters in length and is composed of vibrant shells, mother of pearl, corals, valuable glass, and marble.
According to a report from CNN, the artwork portrays an underwater setting filled with mythical sea creatures, tridents, trumpets, vines, and lotus leaves.
The Ministry of Culture in Italy
According to Alfonsio Russo, the leader of the Colosseum Archeological Park, during ancient times, wealthy noble families who resided on the Palatine Hill would display luxurious decorative elements as a way to flaunt their wealth and high social status.
Professor Russo referred to the finding as unparalleled and states that the chamber would have had a view of a garden and would have held significance in hosting guests during the warmer months.
According to Marco Rossi, a professor specializing in Roman artifacts and the director of the mosaic laboratory at the University of Rome Tre, mosaics are typically discovered on the ground level. However, this particular mosaic covers the entire front wall and has been remarkably well-maintained.
“It’s not been ruined by the weight of debris — as can happen to some mosaics on the ground — and despite being delicate, it hasn’t so much as chipped across the centuries.
A mosaic was discovered in the domus located near Vicus Tuscus, close to the Colosseum.
The intricate mosaic depicts victorious naval and land battles, commemorating the triumphs of a wealthy aristocratic sponsor.
Professor Rossi stated that the artwork was a symbol of high social status and wealth. He also mentioned that this type of discovery is uncommon because wall pieces are more fragile compared to floor pieces, which were designed to endure heavy foot traffic.
Ms Russo explained that the team is currently attempting to determine the origin of the coral used in the artwork, specifically if it came from the Mediterranean or Red Sea. Additionally, they are also aiming to uncover the identity of the probable owner, believed to be a Roman senator.
They are optimistic that the area will be accessible for the public to view starting in January.
Source: independent.co.uk
