Palatine Hill: history and art in the heart of Rome

The home to aristocratic residences and the palaces of great emperors.

The Palatine is one of the Seven Hills of Rome included in the Colosseum Archaeological Park. It is one of the oldest sites in the city today, while in the past it was home to aristocratic residences and imperial palaces. It was here that the residences of the great emperors were built, starting with that of Augustus, which also included the renowned House of Livia. The Domus Tiberiana, Domus Transitoria, Domus Aurea, Domus Flavia and Domus Augustana were all built later on. These residences were linked with each other by underground passageways decorated with truly fascinating figurative arts. One example is the Neronian Cryptoporticus, a 130-meter long passage with characteristic pictorial decorations and mosaic floors of remarkable beauty. The Palatine was also the site for various cults, such as the Magna Mater and Apollo and Vesta. For everyone visiting Rome, this hill is vital for learning about the history of Rome.