Beneath the Eternal City lies an ancient world full of mysteries to be discovered.
One of them is that of the rich building found on the shores of the Tiber, near the Milvian Bridge, where the battle took place in the fourth century that led Constantine and his entire empire to convert to Christianity.
FRANCESCO PROSPERETTI
Head of excavations
“We don't know if this area is from before, during or after the battle of the Milvian Bridge, but one of the theories is that this building may house the tomb of a Christian martyr.”
The elegance of its marble floors, which contrasts with that of the other structures, shows the building wasn't just a place of business like those that surround it.
The archaeologists believe this was a commercial area where merchandise was unloaded.
FRANCESCO PROSPERETTI
Head of excavations
“This discovery confirms the Tiber River was once the true artery of the city of Rome. Along the river were the shops and carriages. Along the shores, far from the capital's center, the infrastructure was commercial.”
Archaeologists have only unearthed a small part of the site. In addition to the places of business, there was also a mausoleum with three tombs.
However, the building's owner or what it was used for will remain a secret, because the site must be covered again. Its proximity to the Tiber is dangerous, as fall or winter rainfall could damage the remains. Further study will have to wait.
Rome is full of little sites like this one that gradually offer more details about the past of one of the most glorious empires in history.
