Villa of Tiberius, Italy: Off The Beaten Path
Just outside of quaint coastal town Sperlonga in Italy, you’ll find the Villa of Tiberius: a series of terraces facing the sea, and home to an ancient Roman sea grotto and the spectacular Sperlonga sculptures. With an archaeological museum on site, visitors can learn about the history and art of the excavation site, before heading down to the water to explore the ruins.
© Pavel068 | Dreamstime.com
On the edge of the Pontine Marshes, the town of Spelunca (Latin for cave) was only known for the grotto located on its shore. It grew in significance only when a luxurious villa was built and owned, along with the cave, by Tiberius (emperor between 14 to 37 AD). Along with creating magnificent fish ponds and terraces to overlook the landscape and sea, Tiberius decorated the grotto with expensive sculptures, busts, and statues from well known artists of the time. The giant works of art depict tales of Odysseus, mythical king of Ithaca and his journeys, triumphs, and adventurous character.
© Stefano Valeri | Dreamstime.com
Always a known villa, but whose whereabouts where unknown, the Villa of Tiberius was finally discovered in 1957 while some builders were constructing a coastal road near the site. After delicate reconstruction and preservation, the property is open to the public to explore. Wander down the hilly slope, past the Mediterranean vegetation, until you hit the imperial palace. Meander past the low walls, admire the view of the sea, and head in the direction of Odysseus’s cave. It still holds the history of emperor Tiberius and the tales of the great Odysseus.
Featured image: © Pavel068 | Dreamstime.com