Cenatio Iovis, Imperial banquet hall at Flavian Palace in Rome, Italy.
The Cenatio Iovis is the second largest room of the Flavian Palace, with tiered columns made from exotic marbles and ornately decorated friezes. The remains visible today show the impressive decoration that once adorned this imperial banquet space.
This hall was built during Emperor Domitian's reign in the 1st century as the center for imperial feasts and political gatherings. It was later renovated during Emperor Hadrian's time with technical improvements including a heating system.
The hall displays how Romans expressed power through architecture, with its marble columns and elaborate decorations serving as symbols of imperial status. Such grand spaces were where emperors received their most important guests and demonstrated their authority.
Access is through the main entrance of the Palatine Hill with marked paths leading to the palace remains. Walking through the archaeological site allows you to explore the ruins from different angles and perspectives.
A sophisticated heating system called hypocaust lies beneath the floor and was likely installed during Hadrian's renovation work. This technology allowed the hall to be used comfortably even during colder months.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
