Domus Aurea, Rome

Humans have inclination to love themselves and sometimes this love surpasses all expectations, especially it is seen by the example of kings, emperors and pharaohs. Roman emperor Nero was not an exception. After great fire of 64 AD, which destroyed almost whole city, Nero started construction of this immense complex of buildings of the Domus Aurea. It was really huge because it covered almost one third of the first-century Rome! And the size of it is not one over-indulgence. It was overlaid with gold which gave the name to this palace – Domus Aurea that is “Golden House”. Apart from gold, it was overlaid inside with white marble, frescoes, precious and semi-precious stones. It had several fountains, baths houses, banqueting rooms with cold and hot running water, gardens with countless monuments, vineyards and so on. Moreover, Nero ordered to Greek Zenodorus to create for him 35.5 m high bronze statue of himself, it is known under name Colossus Neronis.

After Nero committed suicide in 68 AD, the master of the Domus Aurea became Vespasian, who destroyed large part of the palace. Colossus Neronis also suffered many changes. Emperors for several times were changing the head of the statue, depending on what emperor was ruling in that period, and finally it was transferred to the Amphitheatrum Flavium (that is Coliseum now).

After years of excavation works the part of Domus Aurea was opened to the public, so do not miss such opportunity to visit this interesting place! Of course Rome has much more to show you apart from Domus Aurea, so stay here in one of the Rome hotels and enjoy each your step on this unique land of living history. And I’m sure, that you will have a strong desire to return to this “eternal city”.