Nero’s theater found near Vatican.
The Lost Theater of Nero Unearthed Outside the Vatican
The theater belonging to Rome’s fifth emperor Nero was discovered Thursday just outside the wall of the Vatican. The excitement is palpable as archaeologists uncover the secrets of this ancient structure.
A Hidden Gem Beneath the Palazzo dei Penitenzieri
Rome’s Palazzo dei Penitenzieri, also known as the Palazzo della Rovere, has been undergoing renovations on its Renaissance building, captivating locals and tourists alike. Little did they know that beneath its walled courtyard, a remarkable find awaited them.
Located just west of the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica, the ruins of Nero’s theater have emerged from the depths of history. Alongside the theater, a treasure trove of artifacts has been unearthed, shedding light on the grandeur of ancient Rome.
A Journey Back in Time
This magnificent palazzo is owned by the Catholic Church, specifically the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem. As part of the ongoing renovations, a Four Seasons Hotel is set to grace the premises in 2025. Interestingly, the theater was discovered precisely where the hotel planned to create its own enchanting garden.
While references to Nero’s theater existed in ancient Roman literature, its exact location remained a mystery until now. Pilgrimage texts written by Pliny the Elder mentioned the theater as a prominent landmark, and other historical accounts documented the grand events hosted by Nero within its walls.
Astonishing Discoveries
The recent excavation has yielded remarkable finds. According to Rome’s special superintendent Daniela Porro, seven of Nero’s glass chalices had been previously discovered in different areas. However, this latest discovery has unearthed seven more chalices, along with captivating costumes, ancient cooking utensils, and exquisite pottery.
These artifacts provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Nero and his entourage, transporting us back to a time of extravagance and grandeur.
Preserving Italy’s Cultural Heritage
Italian law ensures that any object or landmark of cultural significance, older than 50 years, falls under the protection of the government. These invaluable artifacts are not permitted to be exported out of Italy without federal approval, safeguarding the nation’s rich history.
Nero’s Legacy Lives On
Nero, who ascended to power at the tender age of 16, ruled the Roman Empire for fourteen eventful years. His reign was marked by rebellion and controversy, ultimately leading to his exile from Rome and his untimely demise.
The discovery of his long-lost theater serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of this enigmatic emperor, captivating the imagination of history enthusiasts around the world.
Click here to read more from The Washington Examiner.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
