For nearly 1,800 years, the Roman Cisternone has been an important historical monument located beneath the streets of Albano Laziale, near Rome, Italy.
This ancient underground water reservoir was built between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD under the direction of Emperor Septimius Severus to supply water to the camp of the Second Parthian Legion.
With an impressive capacity of approximately 10,000 cubic meters, or about 2.64 million gallons, the Roman Cisternone is an extraordinary example of Roman engineering prowess. The structure is shaped like an irregular quadrilateral, measuring 30 meters by 50 meters. It is made up of a combination of rock excavation and brick construction, divided into five naves supported by 36 sturdy pillars. The interior walls are coated with a layer of waterproof plaster, which has helped preserve the integrity of the cistern over the centuries.
What makes the Cisternone Romano truly unique is its continued functionality. Despite nearly two thousand years of history, the channels that convey water from the springs along Lake Albano are still operational. This ancient reservoir not only stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Roman architects and engineers, but also highlights the extraordinary longevity of their infrastructure.
The discovery of the largest intact mosaic in the world beneath the Antakya Museum Hotel in Turkey is a remarkable testament to the rich historical legacy of the ancient city of Antioch, now modern-day Antakya. This incredible archaeological find, spanning a massive 1,050 square meters, has shed new light on the grandeur and cultural sophistication of the region during antiquity.
Antioch, founded in 300 BCE by Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, was a major center of Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian culture. It was renowned for its vibrant public spaces, temples, theaters, and intricate mosaics, reflecting a city that was both a vital trade hub and a melting pot of diverse cultures and artistic traditions.
The mosaic uncovered during the construction of the Antakya Museum Hotel likely adorned the floor of a grand public building, possibly a bathhouse, palace, or civic structure. It features elaborate geometric patterns, detailed imagery, and colorful designs that showcase the exceptional artistry of the time. The mosaic’s intricate details, preserved so well over centuries, offer insights into the artistic techniques, aesthetic preferences, and cultural themes valued by the people of Antioch.
What makes this discovery even more exceptional is its sheer scale and intact condition, which is rare for ancient mosaics. Its preservation was aided by the sediment and debris that accumulated over centuries, shielding it from damage and allowing modern archaeologists to marvel at its complexity and beauty. The mosaic serves as both a work of art and a historical document, providing glimpses of the social, economic, and cultural context of life in ancient Antioch.
The Antakya Museum Hotel has embraced the historical significance of this find by incorporating the mosaic into its structure. Guests can view and appreciate the mosaic through specially designed glass floors and platforms, creating a unique blend of hospitality and heritage preservation. This integration highlights how modern construction and archaeology can coexist and benefit each other, allowing people from around the world to engage with history in a personal and immersive way.
The discovery and display of the mosaic at the Antakya Museum Hotel continue to draw interest from historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike, deepening our understanding of the ancient world and serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of human creativity and craftsmanship.
