“Nymphaeum” of Montopoli di Sabina

The archaeological site known as the “Nymphaeum” of Montopoli di Sabina, located in the locality of Santa Maria, is a Roman-era structure dating back to 1st century B.C. – 1st century A.D. Initially identified as a nymphaeum, that is, a building dedicated to water, recent studies suggest that it was a specus aestivus: a structure intended for rest and recreation typical of Roman aristocratic villas.

The building is organized on two levels, with a large rectangular hall and a semicircular apse decorated with niches, perhaps used to house statues. The floors are composed of fine materials such as travertine and puddinga, while the walls retain traces of a brick and plaster frame, suggesting their original elegance.

The Nymphaeum is located about 3 km from the Tiber and near the Farfa stream, in an area of considerable historical value. The Sabina Tiberina, in fact, was inhabited since the Paleolithic age and in Roman times was the site of numerous rustic villas and residences for otium, used by the Roman aristocracy for vacationing and farming. The presence of natural springs in this area may have contributed to the decision to build the Nymphaeum in this precise location.

After centuries of use, including as a stable until the 20th century, the site was rediscovered in 1995 thanks to the initiative of the landowner, who requested an intervention of the Superintendence for the protection and enhancement of the site. Since then, the monument has been restored and secured, becoming an important example of historic preservation.

Today, the Nymphaeum of Montopoli di Sabina offers animmersion in the rural and aristocratic life of Roman times, showing how the Romans sought refuge in places surrounded by nature, ideal for enjoying coolness and tranquility away from the summer heat, in an atmosphere of relaxation and otium.