An important archaeological site located on the Arcinazzo Romano plateau. A magical place for those who love “hidden” Roman Archaeology: absolute peace, stunning views, and a dive into Imperial history without the crowds.
The Villa of Trajan (or Villa of Emperor Trajan 98-117 AD), hunting residence of one of the most fascinating figures of the ancient world.
One of the most fascinating and lesser-known places in ancient Lazio, built as a private retreat for the emperor “optimum princeps”, a passionate hunter.
It served as a hunting lodge and summer retreat, with two platforms: the excavated lower one features gardens, opus mixtum masonry, and luxurious decorations.
The site extends over terraces, with remains of imposing structures (platea, monumental garden, triclinium, thermal baths, and luxurious marble decorations).
Many precious materials (marble, frescoes, stucco) were reused in later periods for local churches, but modern excavations (from the 18th century onwards, intensified in recent decades) have brought to light highly valuable elements, including mosaics, opus sectile, glazed ceramics, and hydraulic pipes with imperial inscriptions.
The “Villa di Traiano” Civic Archaeological Museum is integrated into the Archaeological Park: it occupies two restored rural farmhouses and houses significant finds from the excavations (architectural elements, brick/marble trademarks, decorations, and a marble strigilized basin).
Includes a 3D video reconstruction showing how the villa looked during Trajan’s reign – super helpful for understanding its grandeur!
Trajan’s Villa
Civic Archaeological Museum
Via Sublacense SR411 km 30.00
Arcinazzo Romano (Rome)
Lazio – Italy
What to see in the province, surrounding areas, nearby places, historical archaeological sites