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Domus Aurea: Nero's Extravagant Golden House

Explore the lavish remains of Emperor Nero's Golden House in Rome, a testament to imperial extravagance and artistic innovation hidden beneath the city.

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The Domus Aurea, or Golden House, was an immense and opulent palace complex built by Emperor Nero after the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD. Covering a vast area, it featured lavish decorations, sprawling gardens, an artificial lake, and served as a testament to Nero's extravagant tastes and ambitions. Today, visitors can explore the excavated remains and experience a glimpse into the grandeur of Imperial Rome.

A brief summary to Domus Aurea

  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets in advance, as visits are by guided tour only and often sell out.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing, as the temperature inside the Domus Aurea can be cool and the terrain uneven.
  • Consider taking a tour with virtual reality to fully experience the Domus Aurea's original splendor.
  • Allow ample time for your visit, as the guided tour lasts approximately 75 minutes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Domus Aurea is located near the Colosseum, making it easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line B to the Colosseo station. From there, walk uphill through the Colle Oppio park, following signs for the Domus Aurea. Several bus lines (51, 75, 85, 87, 117) also stop near the Colosseum. A single metro or bus ticket costs €1.50.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center, the Domus Aurea is within walking distance of many major landmarks, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum. From the Colosseum, walk east and uphill into the Colle Oppio park. The entrance to the Domus Aurea is located within the park.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near the entrance to the Colle Oppio park. However, vehicles are not allowed inside the park itself, so you will need to walk the final short distance to the Domus Aurea. A short taxi ride from Roma Termini train station to the Colosseum area typically costs between €14-€17.

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Discover more about Domus Aurea

The Domus Aurea, meaning "Golden House" in Latin, was Emperor Nero's ambitious project following the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD. This vast palatial complex was designed to be the most extravagant residence ever conceived, showcasing unparalleled luxury and artistic innovation. Covering an estimated 200 acres, the Domus Aurea stretched across the Palatine, Esquiline, and Caelian hills. The complex included sprawling gardens, vineyards, forests, and an artificial lake where the Colosseum now stands. Inside, the palace boasted over 300 rooms adorned with precious stones, ivory, and gold leaf. Ceilings were decorated with intricate mosaics, and some rooms even featured rotating mechanisms that scattered petals and perfumes. Nero took a personal interest in the Domus Aurea's design, collaborating with architects Celer and Severus to ensure every detail reflected his vision. The palace was intended primarily for entertainment and artistic display, housing Nero's extensive art collection. After Nero's death in 68 AD, the Domus Aurea became a symbol of his excesses and was subsequently stripped of its valuable materials. Later emperors, such as Vespasian and Trajan, built over parts of the complex, burying it for centuries. Rediscovered during the Renaissance, the Domus Aurea's frescoes inspired artists like Raphael and Michelangelo. Today, visitors can explore the excavated sections of the Domus Aurea, located beneath the Baths of Trajan. Guided tours offer insights into the palace's history, architecture, and artistic significance. Virtual reality installations provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to visualize the Domus Aurea in its former glory.

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