Domus Augusti

By the Editors of the Madain Project

The Domus Augusti, literally meaning domus of Augustus, is an archaeological site in the north-west sector of the Palatine Hill (Palatino). It is believed to have been the primary residence of emperor Augustus at least since 40 BCE. The Domus Augusti is located south-east of the so-called Hut of Romulus and other sites that have connections to the foundation of Rome. It is possible that the later imperial period Domus Augustana took its name from the Domus Augusti and may have even incorporated it.

See Location   Home > N/A
See Subject   Home > Europe > Italy > Rome > Seven Hills > Palatine Hill > Domus Augusti

Overview

The Domus Augusti (House of Augustus) is well documented in ancient literary sources. Suetonius records that Augustus took residence in the former house of Quintus Hortensius on the Palatine Hill, having relocated from his original dwelling in the Roman Forum. Velleius Paterculus further specifies that Augustus purchased both the land and the house of Hortensius in 41–40 BCE. Shortly after this acquisition, the site was reportedly struck by lightning, an event interpreted as an omen. In response, Augustus declared the property public land and consecrated a temple to Apollo Palatinus, attributing his victory over Sextus Pompey in 36 BCE to the deity’s divine favor. This act of religious devotion prompted the Senate to decree that the surrounding area be granted to Augustus from public funds. An oak crown (wreath), said to have adorned the entrance, symbolized this senatorial recognition in 27 BCE. The structure was extensively destroyed in a fire in 3 CE but was subsequently rebuilt and incorporated into state property.

The plan of the Domus Augusti was based on two peristyles bordered by rooms. West of the domus complex sits the Temple of Apollo Palatinus. Most of the remains are around Peristyle A, as much of Peristyle B was destroyed by the later Palace of Domitian. This entire site occupies an approx. area of 8,600 square meters. The house was built on two terraces.

Archaeological Sectors

circa 40 BCE- 14 CE

House of Augustus
The so-called House of Augusutus is the south-west sector of the larger domus complex. This section of the house was situated between two peristyle spaces, one to the north-east and second (now lost) to the south-west.

circa 40 BCE- 14 CE

House of Livia
The so-called House of Livia is the north-east sector of the archaeological site of Domus Augusti.

circa 40 BCE- 14 CE

Peristyle A
The "peristyle A" was situated directly west of the Temple of Apollo and north-east of the so-called House of Augustus. It dates to approximately 39 BCE and has been identified as the private quarters of the villa. There is little archaeological and architectural evidence that remains, with the exception of a portion of the tufa peristyle.

circa 40 BCE- 14 CE

Peristyle B
The "peristyle B" lies a symmetrical position across on the other side of the Temple of Apollo Palatinus and was constructed between 39 and 36 BCE. It perhaps served a public function. However, the Palace of Domitian (Domus Augustana) has disturbed much of this area, which is possibly how the Domus Augustana received its name.

Gallery Want to use our images?

See Also

References

Let's bring some history to your inbox

Signup for our monthly newsletter / online magazine.
No spam, we promise.

Privacy Policy



Top