Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery beneath Rome, unearthing a hidden ancient palace that likely served as home to Popes between the ninth and thirteenth centuries AD.
The discovery occurred last year during renovation work at the Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano, which was being prepared for the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025.
Workers stumbled upon complex architecture beneath the piazza, including walled structures that predate the establishment of the Vatican seat.
The walls discovered feature large blocks of volcanic rock bricks, known as tuff, which appear to have been reused from structures that no longer exist.
Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery beneath Rome, unearthing a hidden ancient palace that likely served as home to Popes between the ninth and thirteenth centuries AD
Italian Ministry of Culture
Archaeologists noted evidence of restoration interventions, including the presence of a bandage on some blocks.
In the westward sections of the wall, researchers observed more irregular construction techniques.
These findings offer valuable insights into the architectural methods employed during this significant period of Rome's history.
Researchers suspect these structures may belong to the Patriarchate, which served as the residence of religious leaders and included a grand reception hall called the monumental basilica.
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During the Middle Ages, the structure underwent multiple enlargements and renovations
Italian Ministry of Culture
During the Middle Ages, the structure underwent multiple enlargements and renovations, eventually becoming the papacy or the Pope's official residence.
Experts believe the wall surrounding the ancient basilica likely served as a defensive structure during a tumultuous period among Rome's aristocratic families.
According to the Italian Ministry of Culture, this was "a time of turmoil among Rome's aristocratic families" and Rome faced raids from the Saracens.
In 1305, the papal capital moved from the Patriarchate to Avignon, France.
Experts believe the wall surrounding the ancient basilica likely served as a defensive structure during a tumultuous period among Rome's aristocratic families
Italian Ministry of Culture
When the papal seat was later transferred to the Vatican, the defensive wall lost its purpose and was buried, with all memory of it lost
Italian Ministry of Culture
When the papal seat was later transferred to the Vatican, the defensive wall lost its purpose and was buried, with all memory of it lost.
The discovery provides a glimpse into the development of this part of Rome.
Gennaro Sangiuliano, the Italian minister of culture, described the findings as "of extraordinary importance" to Rome and its medieval history.
He said: "The discoveries of Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano are yet another demonstration of the richness of the territory of Rome, an inexhaustible mine of archaeological treasures. Every single stone speaks to us and tells its story: thanks to these important finds, archaeologists will be able to know more about our past."
