Villa Romana Delle Grotte, Archaeological park in Portoferraio, Italy
Villa Romana Delle Grotte is an archaeological site on a promontory spanning two hectares with a double-level structure. The complex contains residential areas and terraces with views toward the Gulf of Portoferraio.
The site originated at the end of the first century before Christ and underwent major reconstruction during the reigns of Augustus and Tiberius. It belonged to the noble Valerii family, who used it as a display of their power and wealth.
The rooms still bear traces of their ancient decoration with colored marble and painted walls throughout the structure. You can see how residents adorned their living spaces with patterned designs and floral imagery.
The site is reached by a walking path from central Portoferraio that takes about 20 minutes and climbs steadily uphill. Bring water and sun protection, as there is little shade across the grounds.
The stone vaults that support the villa look like natural caves when viewed from the sea, which inspired the name Grotte. This optical effect made the structure a recognizable landmark along the ancient shoreline.
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