The Domus Romana Lucca – Casa del Fanciullo sul Delfino is an archaeological site with an attached museum located in the heart of Lucca. This site was accidentally discovered during some renovation works in the historic center, in the basement of Palazzo Orsucci in the early 2010s. It is the first and only archaeological site in Europe to be unearthed and opened to the public with purely private funds.
One of the main exhibits at the Domus Romana Lucca is a wall that clearly shows the Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance influences. This unique feature allows visitors to observe the evolution of building styles used in different eras in a single environment.
Another significant find at the Domus Romana Lucca is a terracotta frieze, from which the Domus gets its name. The frieze depicts two boys riding dolphins on either side of a gorgon's head, which the children are holding by the hair. This frieze symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is believed to date back to 56 BC. Such works were generally placed in correspondence with major events, and that year, ancient Lucca hosted the First Triumvirate, which included the great Julius Caesar.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Renaissance art & Early modern art
Via Cesare Battisti 15, Lucca
No exhibitions in Domus Romana Lucca have been found.
Domus Romana Lucca has 1 rating.
The Domus Romana Lucca offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Roman life in this historic Tuscan city. Located beneath the Church of Saints Giovanni and Reparata, this archaeological site showcases the remains of a Roman domus (house) from the 1st-2nd century AD.
Visitors appreciate the well-preserved mosaic floors and the layout of the Roman house, which provides insight into daily life during that period. The museum's audio guide and informative panels help explain the significance of the artifacts and structures on display. Many find the multi-layered history of the site intriguing, as it reveals different periods of Lucca's past, from Roman times through the medieval era.
However, some visitors note that the site is relatively small and can be explored rather quickly. The lighting in some areas could be improved to better highlight the ancient remains. A few reviewers mention that the entrance fee might seem a bit high for the size of the exhibit, especially for those not deeply interested in archaeology.
Despite these minor drawbacks, most visitors find the Domus Romana Lucca to be an interesting addition to their tour of Lucca, offering a different perspective on the city's rich history. It's particularly appealing to those with an interest in Roman history or archaeology, though casual visitors might find it less engaging.
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