Located a few meters from the iconic Trevi Fountain is Vicus Caprarius, known as the City of Water. This hidden archaeological wonder was unearthed less than two decades ago during the construction of a cinema. In the heart of Rome, near the famous Dolce Vita fountain, a descent below the modern street level reveals an ancient complex dating back to the Imperial era, including the remains of a large water reservoir. After the catastrophic fire in 64 AD, Emperor Nero"s new vision for the city led to the construction of a multi-story residential building (island) on this site. Boasting numerous families, this building was a precursor to high-density modern living. In the 4th century, it was transformed into a luxurious house (domus), with the ground floor repurposed for sanitary facilities. The building featured decorative walls and marble-coated stairs, with its main floor likely used for social gatherings, as evidenced by the discovery of a beautiful floor mosaic. During the 2nd century AD, the southern side of the structure was modified to accommodate a huge water tank, the Castellum Aquae. This tank was part of the Vergine aqueduct, Rome"s only ancient aqueduct that also feeds the Trevi Fountain and others. With a capacity of 150,000 cubic meters, the two interconnected chambers of the Castellum Aquae were lined with a mixture of bricks and lime to waterproof. Roman engineering channeled the water into the tank of Vicus Caprarius and then distributed it south. Remarkably, water still flows inside this ancient reservoir. Next to the Aquae de Castellum, archaeologists discovered two houses from the 12th and 13th centuries, their walls consisting of repurposed Roman bricks and marble, showing the medieval practice of repurposing older architectural elements. The underground archaeological site of Vicus Caprarius, a stone"s throw from the Trevi Fountain, welcomes visitors to Vicolo del Puttarello 25.
Unearthing the Hidden Water City of Rome
Nestled just a stone's throw away from the iconic Trevi Fountain lies a hidden gem of ancient Rome: Vicus Caprarius, also known as the City of Water. Discovered less than two decades ago during the construction of a cinema, this archaeological marvel offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and engineering prowess of Imperial-era Rome. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the secrets of Vicus Caprarius, delving into its rich history, architectural wonders, and enduring legacy.
Unveiling History: The Origins and Evolution of Vicus Caprarius
The story of Vicus Caprarius begins with Emperor Nero's ambitious urban development projects following the devastating fire of 64 AD. At its inception, this site was home to a multi-story residential building, serving as a precursor to modern high-density living. Over the centuries, the structure underwent several transformations, evolving from a bustling residential complex to a luxurious domus adorned with decorative walls and marble-coated stairs. The highlight of this ancient site is undoubtedly the Castellum Aquae, a massive water tank fed by the Vergine aqueduct, which still flows with water today.
Engineering Marvels: Exploring the Castellum Aquae and Beyond
The Castellum Aquae stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Roman engineering, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and advanced hydraulic systems of the time. With its impressive capacity of 150,000 cubic meters, this ancient reservoir played a crucial role in supplying water to the bustling city of Rome, including nearby landmarks like the Trevi Fountain. Beyond the aqueduct, archaeologists have unearthed additional treasures, including 12th and 13th-century houses constructed from repurposed Roman bricks and marble, offering insights into medieval architectural practices and the enduring legacy of ancient Rome.
Journey to the Past: Visiting Vicus Caprarius
For history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, a visit to Vicus Caprarius promises an immersive experience into the rich tapestry of Rome's past. Located at Vicolo del Puttarello 25, this underground archaeological site invites visitors to explore its labyrinthine passages, marvel at its well-preserved structures, and contemplate the lives of the ancient Romans who once inhabited this bustling neighborhood. Guided tours offer the opportunity to delve deeper into the history and significance of Vicus Caprarius, providing a glimpse into the daily life and architectural marvels of Imperial-era Rome.
Conclusion: Preserving Rome's Ancient Legacy
As we conclude our exploration of Vicus Caprarius, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome. From its humble origins as a residential complex to its transformation into a sophisticated water city, this hidden gem offers a window into the past, allowing us to connect with the people and stories that shaped one of history's greatest civilizations. As visitors walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans, may they gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity, creativity, and resilience of those who came before us, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.
