Hidden wonders

Excavation work right in front of Vatican Radio’s main entrance continues with the dismantling of imperial-era fullonicas (ancient laundries), recently discovered during redevelopment efforts for the upcoming Jubilee. As work proceeds, more hidden wonders are revealed. Careful excavations on Vatican Radio’s doorstep are being conducted alongside stratigraphic excavations that have uncovered significant remains, some dating as far back as the first half of the 1st century AD. Notably, the remains of a portico overlooking the Tiber and large gardens belonging to Emperor Caligula have emerged. A luxurious garden facing the Tiber has been unearthed in the area designated for an underpass for the 2025 Jubilee. The garden is bordered by a massive terraced wall made of squared travertine blocks, running parallel to the river. Alongside this ...