Vicus Caprarius – The City of Water under the Trevi Fountain
Everyone knows the famous Trevi Fountain. Less well known is the fascinating archaeological stratification that extends under the fountain. In the surroundings you can find the archaeological area of the Vicus Caprarius – the so called “City of Water”. We would be glad to arrange a visit for you. Please select you preferred tour HERE and ask to visit the Vicus Caprarius, the City of Water under the Trevi Fountain.
Under the Trevi Fountain
A few steps away from one of the most famous works of art in the world, at a depth of a little over nine meters from the current street level, workmen have uncovered a building complex dating back to the imperial age. This remarkable building complex is a unique testimony of the urban composition of ancient Rome.
The company that owns the property and commissioned the work, has allowed a full recovery and a careful enhancement of the archaeological site. This covers an area of about 350 square meters and is definitely worth a visit.
A section of the Vicus Caprarius
The City of Water
The term “City of Water”, currently used to define the archaeological area of Vicus Caprarius, is due to the element that undoubtedly characterizes the area and the site. Water! It flows from the Trevi Fountain, filtering through the ancient walls of the archaeological area. Still today, it continues to feed the lead pipes and tanks of a luxurious Roman residence block. The wall structures found, in fact, are built in the famous opus latericium and preserved for a height of about eight meters. These walls belong to a so called insula, a block of flats divided into several independent units. In the mid-fourth century, the insula was transformed in a mansion.
Other findings
In addition to the finding of the insula and the mansion, you can see other findings of this incredible site. In the “antiquarium” you may still see the precious polychrome marble coverings. Furthermore, you may also see a collection of African amphorae for transporting oil. A true surprise for the visitors alsoe includes a wonderful “treasure” consisting of over 800 coins that testify the use and life of the area.
We would be glad to arrange a visit for you. Please select you preferred tour HERE and ask to visit this amazing site, off the main tourist routes! Come and #feeltheessence!
