Sacello degli Augustali, Archaeological temple at Punta Sarparella, Italy
The Sacello degli Augustali is a small Roman temple with three connected chambers, with the central rectangular room built in distinctive reticulated masonry. Two side rooms extend across two levels and are carefully constructed with stone blocks.
The sanctuary was built in the early Roman imperial period in the 1st century and later underwent major renovations under the direction of wealthy citizen Cassia Victoria. These renewal phases show how important the building remained to the local community.
The building was dedicated to worshipping Roman emperors and served as a meeting place for the Augustales, a priesthood of wealthy citizens who conducted religious ceremonies. It shows how ordinary people participated in venerating the imperial family.
The site is located in Bacoli near Naples and can be viewed from outside, with the chambers partially accessible inside. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the ground is uneven and climbing over ancient stone blocks is necessary.
The temple's forecourt remains underwater today because underground water flows continuously flood the structure, creating an unusual preservation condition. This natural phenomenon has kept the building in a kind of time capsule for centuries.
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