Grotte di Catullo

Sirmione, Italy

The Grotte di Catullo was a large Roman villa on the end of the Sirmione peninsula. The villa, built around 150 AD, is the most important example of a high-class residence in the whole of northern Italy. Just after the entrance to the archaeological park one find the Museum, where objects brought to light during the excavation of the villa, and in archaeological work conducted in Sirmione and other localities of lake Garda, are displayed.

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Founded: 150 AD
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

AperolSpritz J (16 months ago)
If you come for the CMBYN arch, sorry that section is now closed for visitors. You can only watch at a distance. That’s a bummer. The heat is incredible and there’s not much shade so be prepared. The ticket costs €8. On the other end of the site lies another exit/entrance point to the beach. You can visit the beach and re-enter with your ticket.
Dino Numić (17 months ago)
A marvellous archeological site of the old Roman ruins located on the Sirmione peninsula just above the famous Jamaica beach. 8€ is a standard ticket and free for anyone under 18. Depending on the time of the year and whether there are some special events going around it can be free to access. I would recommend getting the full ticket which is about 14€ and it also gives you access to Castello Scaligero and the Roman villa in Desenzano. Castle is a must visit with the perfect 360 view of Sirmione. You can take a cheap ferry between Desenzano and Sirmione. Ride is about 15-20min.
Paul Paolozzi (18 months ago)
A historical gem! It's beyond words how interesting this location is. I enjoyed climbing the stairs and seeing the preserved artifacts. One can only imagine the about of construction needed to create this location. Likewise, how many people it took to service this place.
Grumpy Old Man (18 months ago)
Bit of a ruin (pardon the pun) but set in lovely scenery with great views of the lake, and literally thousands of matural olive trees growing throughout it. Nice beach situated at the back with access down from the ruins.
Johnny Hegarty (19 months ago)
Was absolutely stunning. The ruins is amazing with the History of the place. Sign posts are in English, German and Italian. Cost of €8 is worth it to see this. Also some breath taken views
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