Archaeologists in Rome have made an incredible discovery during a five-year excavation on Palatine Hill. They uncovered a well-preserved banquet room from the first or second century BC, complete with a large and brightly colored wall mosaic. The artwork, estimated to be 2,300 years old, depicts scenes of vines, lotus leaves, tridents, trumpets, helmets, and mythological marine creatures. What sets this mosaic apart is its celebratory scenes of naval and land battles, likely funded by a wealthy aristocratic patron. The mosaic’s depictions of victory, including a coastal town and sailing ships, have surprised the team due to their intricacy. The discovery of an intact wall mosaic is extremely rare, and the preservation of this piece is attributed to its location and centuries of mud and earth covering. The identity of the mansion’s owner is still a mystery but believed to be a Roman senator. The archaeologists are planning to open the space to the public in January.
https://www.cnn.com/style/rome-palatine-hill-archaeology-discovery/index.html