La Villa Romana di Valdonega

History and discoveries

The building, dating back to the 1st century AD, measures 17 metres in length and 11 metres in width (excluding the portico) and an L-shaped portico, a large hall, two other rooms and a cavity are still visible. The predominant element of the layout is the large colonnaded room on three sides, formerly used for banquets and parties, with functions similar to those of triclinia, but larger and more sumptuous. The only known example in northern Italy, it presents characteristics found in many Pompeian examples. The floor is made of mosaic with a geometric motif; between the columns there are polychrome panels with plant and animal scenes, with different varieties of birds; on the walls there are traces of frescoes. The capitals that surmount the columns are particularly valuable. 

Function and meaning

The Roman Villa of Valdonega was not only an aristocratic residence, but also a center of agricultural production. In fact, the villa was located in a fertile area, suitable for the cultivation of vines, olives and other typical products of the area. Archaeological discoveries also include evidence related to agricultural production, such as structures for food storage and wine processing, which demonstrate the importance of the villa not only as a residence, but also as an economic center.

Conservation and access

Today, the Roman Villa of Valdonega is an important archaeological site that offers a window into life in the Roman era.
The archaeological site is accessible to the public by reservation on Tuesdays and Sundays from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Guided tours are also organized that attract numerous tourists and ancient history enthusiasts, eager to discover the cultural and artistic riches that the Roman Villa of Valdonega has to offer.