›PROGETTO DOMUS AUREA‹ – Conservation and Investigation of the Monument

Abstract

The large and magnificent complex of the Domus Aurea on Colle Oppio has been, since 2011, the subject of a comprehensive project to solve serious problems of conservation. These are due in large part to its underground location below a modern public park. In order to arrive at a solution it was necessary to analyse the consistency and the history of the monument and the causes of its degradation. As a result, detailed documentation was required. Different methods of stabilization and preservation were discussed. After lengthy deliberation it was decided firstly to secure the retaining walls and structures in the building in their ancient settings and secondly to reduce the weight of the earth on top of the building, which was raised during construction of the park in the Fascist period. Therefore the walls and vaults, following ancient models, were strengthened again and the openings closed as far as it was necessary. The embankment of the park will be replaced by a structure which is composed of different layers. In this way it will be possible to reduce the penetration of water and to regulate the microclimate inside the building in a better way. The Progetto Domus Aurea, now in implementation, has also opened a new phase of research into the ancient complex, one that is closely integrated with the work on conservation and protection.