Palazzo Valentini

Ancient Roman excavations & exhibition beneath a 16th-century building, with a multimedia tour. Palazzo Valentini is a palazzo in central Rome, Italy, not far from Piazza Venezia. Since 1873 it has been the base of the provincial and prefectural administration of Rome. As of December 7, 2011 the archaeological site and its museum have been enriched with a new and important industry. In the basement overlooking the Trajan’s Column , the visitor can admire the remains of a monumental public building or sacred: a mighty pit with cement, partition walls in large blocks of travertine and tuff, drums colossal monolithic columns of Egyptian granite gray, larger put in place in ancient Rome, basement rooms with walls in brickwork and vaulted lowered cruise, dating, according to the brick stamps in the first Hadrian.

Palazzo Valentini is a fascinating blend of historical architecture and archaeological exploration, allowing visitors to delve into both the Renaissance and ancient Roman history. The combination of administrative functions, museum exhibits, and the Domus Romane makes it a multifaceted destination in the heart of Rome.

Here are key details about Palazzo Valentini:

1. Location:
   • Palazzo Valentini is situated in the heart of Rome, near Piazza Venezia, in the historic city center.
2. History:
   • The palace has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. It underwent various renovations and changes over the centuries.
3. Architecture:
   • Palazzo Valentini is known for its Renaissance and Baroque architectural elements. The façade features classical design elements typical of Roman palaces.
4. Ownership:
   • The palace has changed hands several times over the centuries and has been associated with various noble families.
5. Current Use:
   • Today, Palazzo Valentini serves as the seat of the Provincial Administration of Rome. It houses administrative offices and spaces for public functions.
6. Museo delle Terme di Diocleziano (Museum of the Baths of Diocletian):
   • Within Palazzo Valentini, there is the “Museo delle Terme di Diocleziano,” a museum dedicated to the Baths of Diocletian. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient Roman baths.
7. Archaeological Discoveries:
   • During restoration work in the early 21st century, significant archaeological discoveries were made beneath Palazzo Valentini. These discoveries include well-preserved Roman structures, mosaics, and other artifacts.
8. Domus Romane (Roman Houses):
   • One of the notable features of Palazzo Valentini is the “Domus Romane,” a series of ancient Roman houses that were uncovered during excavations. These houses provide a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
9. Virtual Reality Experience:
   • Palazzo Valentini offers a unique visitor experience through the use of virtual reality. The Domus Romane has been enhanced with multimedia installations, including projections and reconstructions, to provide a more immersive understanding of the archaeological site.
10. Visitor Tours:
    • Visitors to Palazzo Valentini can take guided tours that lead them through the archaeological site, explaining the history and significance of the discoveries.