Archaeologists accidentally unearth hidden ‘papal palace’ under Rome
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The ancient papal palace discovered under Rome
- Archaeologists in Rome have unearthed an ancient palace believed to have housed Popes between the 9th and 13th centuries.
- The complex architecture, discovered beneath Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano, features walls made of volcanic tuff blocks, some showing signs of restoration.
- Researchers suggest the structures may have been part of the Patriarchate, the papal residence before the Vatican, which included a grand reception hall.
- The walls, possibly built for defence against Saracens and feuding families, lost their purpose when the papal seat moved to Avignon, France, in 1305.
- This discovery, deemed "extraordinarily important", offers valuable insights into Rome's mediaeval history.