The Mysteries of Villa Ada: Discovering Ancient Remains

Villa Ada, located in the vicinity of the former Divino Amore church, has long been a site of intrigue and historical significance. Recently, during excavation work conducted by ItalGas, workers made an astonishing discovery – remnants of ancient walls. These enigmatic remains have sparked speculation about their origins and the era to which they belong. Could they possibly be the underground church of San Saturnino? Or perhaps they are remnants of a vanished basilica? In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Villa Ada and explore the significance of these newfound archaeological treasures.

Unveiling the Past: The Mysterious Walls

As the construction vehicles carefully dug through the earth in the area between Villa Ada and via Archiano, the laborers stumbled upon a series of ancient walls. The exact nature and historical context of these walls are still shrouded in mystery. However, one intriguing hypothesis suggests that these remnants could be the underground walls of the long-lost Church of San Saturnino.

This hypothesis finds support in the works of Mariano Armellini, who mentioned the church in his 1893 publication, “Antichi cimiteri cristiani,” and Orazio Marucchi, who referenced it in his 1905 book, “Le Catacombe romane.” Even the renowned sixteenth-century archaeologist Antonio Bosio noted the visibility of this structure during his time. Whether this hypothesis holds true or not, only time will tell.

“The Church of San Saturnino, buried beneath the ground, may finally see the light once again, thanks to the ongoing construction work.”

– Osservatorio Sheerwood, Villa Ada

The Enigmatic Disappearance

The underground Church of San Saturnino is said to have vanished without a trace. Its disappearance has left historians and archaeologists puzzled for centuries. The current excavation project offers a glimmer of hope that the hidden church may resurface and reveal its secrets. Unfortunately, certainty remains elusive. According to the writings of Antonio Bosio, a passionate explorer of catacombs, the area also housed basilicas erected upon the crypt of Crisanto and Daria. Regrettably, these basilicas have never been found again, adding to the aura of mystery that surrounds Villa Ada.

A Rich Tapestry of Discoveries

The area surrounding Villa Ada and via Salaria has long been a treasure trove of archaeological finds. Countless remnants from ancient times have been unearthed, providing valuable insights into the past. Notably, recent construction projects along via Salaria have consistently yielded intriguing discoveries. Let’s explore some of these remarkable findings:

During the construction in Piazza Pitagora, evidence emerged that is believed to be connected to the second layout of the ancient Roman road. The artifacts found here have shed light on the construction techniques and materials used during that time. It is fascinating to witness the tangible remnants of the past intersecting with modern urban development.

At the intersection of Salaria and Viale Regina Margherita, construction work revealed artifacts that offer tantalizing clues about the ancient past. These findings have not only captivated experts but also ignited the imaginations of history enthusiasts. The artifacts discovered here provide valuable glimpses into the lives of those who once walked these same streets.

The Italgas excavation sites on via Salaria, near the former Chiesetta, have been particularly fruitful in terms of archaeological discoveries. The recent unearthing of the mysterious walls has only added to the intrigue surrounding this area. As the excavation continues, archaeologists and historians eagerly await further revelations that may shed light on the hidden history of Villa Ada.

The construction work on via Taro, yet another site along via Salaria, has not been exempt from captivating finds. Artifacts discovered here have provided glimpses into the lives and customs of ancient civilizations. Each discovery adds another piece to the puzzle, enriching our understanding of the rich history underlying Villa Ada.

After a brief pause over the weekend, the investigations at Villa Ada are set to resume. Archaeologists from the Sovrintendenza, who have been present at the excavation site since the discovery, will continue to oversee the meticulous examination of the unearthed remains. The construction vehicles will proceed with utmost care, ensuring that no damage is inflicted upon these precious historical artifacts.

The Significance of Villa Ada’s Archaeological Finds

The frequent discovery of ancient relics in the area surrounding Villa Ada and via Salaria is a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Rome. These findings provide invaluable insights into the lives, beliefs, and architectural achievements of past civilizations. They also serve as a reminder of the enduring importance of preserving and protecting our cultural heritage.