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Domvs Romana: A Glimpse into Roman Malta

Explore the ruins of a Roman-era house with well-preserved mosaics and artifacts, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life in ancient Malta.

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The Domvs Romana, located on the border between Mdina and Rabat, is a ruined Roman-era house dating back to the 1st century BC. The site features well-preserved mosaics and a museum showcasing Roman artifacts, offering insights into the life of a wealthy Roman family in ancient Malta.

A brief summary to Domvs Romana

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby historic city of Mdina, easily accessible by foot.
  • Check the Heritage Malta website for temporary exhibitions or special events that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the site and museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Domvs Romana is located on Museum Esplanade, a short walk from the main attractions in Rabat and Mdina. From Mdina's main gate, walk straight ahead, passing Howard Gardens on your left. The Domvs Romana will be on your right, a few minutes further along the road. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Domvs Romana is easily accessible by bus. Several bus routes stop near the site, including routes 50, 51, 52, 53, 186 and X3. Get off at the 'Rabat 2' or 'Rabat 3' bus stops, which are both a 2-minute walk from the Domvs Romana. A single bus ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for two hours, allowing transfers.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi from Valletta to the Domvs Romana takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the trip. There are no unavoidable tolls on this route.

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Discover more about Domvs Romana

The Domvs Romana, or Roman House, offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Roman Malta. Situated on the boundary between Mdina and Rabat, the site was once a luxurious aristocratic town house (domus) within the Roman city of Melite. Built in the 1st century BC, the house remained in use until the 2nd century AD. Accidentally discovered in 1881, the site revealed remarkably well-preserved polychrome mosaics in the Hellenistic style. These mosaics, found in the peristyle and surrounding rooms, depict decorative motifs and mythological scenes, showcasing the sophisticated taste of the home's inhabitants. The mosaics are made with two types of tesserae: opus vermiculatum in the center and opus tessellatum around the main image. Today, a museum built on the site of the peristyle protects the mosaics and houses a collection of Roman artifacts found both on-site and elsewhere in Malta. The museum's displays illustrate various aspects of Roman family life, from fashion and education to entertainment and cuisine. Highlights include statues of Emperor Claudius and his family, as well as household items such as coins, tableware, and bath accessories. In the 11th century, the area was repurposed as a Muslim cemetery, and the museum also exhibits tombstones and other remains from this period, reflecting Malta's diverse history. The Domvs Romana provides a unique perspective on the intersection of Roman and Arab cultures in Malta.

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