Rome’s newest metro station, Colosseo-Fori Imperiali, has opened its doors, revealing a treasure trove of ancient artifacts discovered during its decade-long construction. The station, located beneath the iconic Colosseum, showcases 350 objects, including ceramic jugs, bronze statuettes, and a wooden sword, offering a glimpse into daily Roman life. Visitors can explore the underground museum, which features the remains of a bathhouse and a thermal bath from a first-century dwelling. The station’s design incorporates “descending archaeology,” a technique developed to preserve ancient structures while building the metro line.
The construction of the Colosseo-Fori Imperiali station has been a remarkable feat of engineering, with excavations revealing a vast military complex from the 2nd century AD, including a residence decorated with frescoes and mosaics. The station’s opening is a testament to Rome’s rich history, with ancient temples and forums built on older foundations, creating a fascinating terrain for archaeologists. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri called the station opening “an extraordinary and historic event”.
