Palatine Hill

Ancient Rome's legendary founding by Romulus dates back to 753 BC. According to myth, he used a plow pulled by a cow and ox to dig a well atop Aventine Hill. Romulus constructed the city walls, moat, and gates. The Etruscan kings, the Tarquins, later introduced a new city plan. From 616 to 509 BC, further enhancements were made, including redecorating streets and temples with innovative designs, rendering them among the finest in the Mediterranean. Stone buildings also received intricate makeovers, adorned with decorative terracotta, showcasing the remarkable architectural prowess of ancient Rome.

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Palatine Hill Rome, an affluent area of ancient Rome, evolved into a residential complex for the wealthy from 509 to 27 BC. Luxurious villas, notably the Houses of Livia and Augustus, held immense significance. Augustus and his third wife, Livia, lived in the former, while he later moved to the House of Augustus, erecting a temple for Apollo in 28 BC. Subsequently, every emperor resided on Palatine Hill, crafting their imperial palaces with unique features. The imperial courts were adorned with colored marble, enriching the grandeur of this historical site.

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During the imperial period, Palatine Hill flourished with remarkable palaces like those of Tiberius, Nero (Domus Transitoria), and part of the Domus Aurea. The completion of the Palace of Domitian elevated the hill's status as the heart of ancient Rome, exuding opulence in every aspect. It boasted various sections, including baths and a stadium for recreation, a private wing for the royal family, and a public wing with the grand throne room. However, as emperors moved away from these lavish palaces towards the period's end, Palatine Hill gradually lost its allure.

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Palatine Hill experienced a sharp decline during the Middle Ages, with various uses emerging. Theodoric undertook some restoration, including an amphitheater in Domitian's stadium. Nevertheless, for three centuries, notable restoration remained scarce, and the Byzantine Duchy's decline led to Palatine being forgotten. Activity resumed in the 9th and 10th centuries, with villages and churches built, and a monastery established. The subsequent centuries brought a mix of events, from Emperor Otto III residing there to its transformation into gardens and vineyards. Eventually, the House of Frangipane took center stage, constructing towers and fortresses to control vital roads

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During the Renaissance Era, Italy's artistic revival began in Florence, and Palatine Hill witnessed significant preservation efforts led by renowned architect Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola under the patronage of the Farnese family. The gardens were rejuvenated, adorned with diverse plants to create a vibrant ambiance. The Farnese Gardens, known as Orti Farnesiani, have been lovingly maintained since 1550.

In Rome, this period saw extensive restoration initiatives across the city, encompassing landmarks like the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. Various monasteries and churches, such as the Church of Sebastiano, San Gregorio Magno al Celio, and the Montecassino monks monastery, underwent restoration projects.

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The Palace of Domitian is one of the highlights of Palatine Hill, located in the heart of ancient Rome. It was built by Emperor Domitian in the late 1st century AD and was the largest and most opulent palace on the hill. The palace had over 150 rooms, including a banquet hall, a throne room, and private apartments for the emperor and his family. It was decorated with exquisite frescoes, intricate mosaics, and stunning marble sculptures. Visitors can explore the remains of the palace, which include the Octagonal Room, the Triclinium, and the Hippodrome. The palace also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Circus Maximus and the Roman Forum. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture.

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The Houses of Livia and Augustus are two of the most significant highlights of the Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy. The House of Livia belonged to Livia Drusilla, the wife of Emperor Augustus, and is known for its exquisite frescoes depicting various landscapes and architectural motifs. On the other hand, the House of Augustus was the residence of Emperor Augustus himself and features stunning wall paintings and mosaics. Visitors can explore the rooms of the two houses, which include bedrooms, living rooms, and courtyards. The houses are a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Roman Empire, and provide a unique insight into the daily lives of the emperors and their families.

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The House of Tiberius is one of the must-visit highlights of Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy. It was built for Emperor Tiberius in the 1st century AD and is known for its opulent architecture and stunning views. The house has several rooms, including a large dining room, a triclinium, and a garden. The most remarkable feature of the house is the underground tunnel system, which allowed Tiberius to move around the hill without being seen by the public. Visitors can explore the ruins of the house and learn about the fascinating history of one of the most notorious emperors in Roman history. The House of Tiberius is a testament to the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture.

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The Domus Severiana is one of the lesser-known highlights of Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy, but is no less impressive than other ancient palaces on the hill. It was built by Emperor Septimius Severus in the 3rd century AD and was known for its ornate decorations and impressive architecture. The palace had a large central courtyard, surrounded by several rooms, including a private bathhouse, a library, and a reception hall. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace and admire the intricate floor mosaics and wall paintings. The Domus Severiana offers a unique insight into the lavish lifestyle of the Roman emperors and their families, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture.

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The Temple of Cybele is a significant highlight of Palatine hill Rome, Italy. It was built in the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the Phrygian goddess Cybele, who was worshipped as the mother goddess of fertility and nature. The temple is known for its impressive architecture and elaborate decorations, including intricate reliefs depicting the goddess and her various aspects. Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple and admire the remains of the columns and pediments. The Temple of Cybele is a testament to the rich religious and cultural history of ancient Rome, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city's fascinating past.

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The Temple of Apollo Palatinus is one of the most significant highlights of Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 6th century BC and was dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. The temple is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful decorations, including several sculptures of Apollo and other deities. Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple and learn about its fascinating history, which includes periods of destruction and reconstruction. The Temple of Apollo Palatinus is a testament to the rich cultural history of ancient Rome, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city's fascinating past and the influence of Greek mythology on Roman culture.

The Septizodium is one of the most unique highlights of Palatine Hill Rome, Italy. It was built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Septimius Severus and was known for its impressive architecture and elaborate decorations. The building was originally intended as a monument to the emperor's victories and was decorated with several statues and intricate reliefs. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Septizodium and admire the remains of the impressive façade. The Septizodium is a testament to the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture.

The Domus Transitoria is one of the most fascinating highlights of Palatine Hill Rome, Italy. It was the first imperial palace built on the hill and was commissioned by Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD. The palace was known for its opulent architecture and extravagant decorations, including impressive frescoes and intricate mosaics. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Domus Transitoria and imagine what life would have been like in the palace during its heyday.

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The Palatine Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Rome. Located on the Palatine Hill, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the hill's rich cultural history, including pottery, sculptures, and other archaeological finds. Visitors can explore the museum's various galleries and learn about the daily lives of the ancient Romans who lived on the hill. The Palatine Museum is a great way to experience the rich cultural history of Rome and gain a deeper appreciation for the lasting impact of the Roman Empire on the world.