Villa of Trajan

The Villa of Trajan was a vast imperial summer residence and hunting lodge built for Emperor Trajan at the beginning of his reign (late 1st–early 2nd century AD). It is located on a high wooded plateau near Arcinazzo Romano, chosen for its cool climate and scenic setting. The villa covered about 5 hectares, much of which remains unexcavated.

Designed on two terraced levels, the lower terrace served public and ceremonial functions, with gardens, porticoes, reception rooms, and a richly decorated triclinium with fountains and marble floors. The upper terrace, largely unexplored, was the private residential area and likely included baths and a fish vivarium. The complex was supplied by large cisterns and featured sophisticated water and heating systems.

Despite centuries of looting for marble, excavations since the mid-20th century have revealed high-quality stucco, frescoes, and exotic marbles, confirming the villa’s exceptional imperial status. Inscriptions on water pipes securely identify the complex as Trajan’s villa and date its construction to the early years of his reign.

Address
Via Sublacense km 30.00, Arcinazzo Romano, Italy

Established
1st century AD