Full Breakdown
Livestream Tours of the House of the Griffins: A New Era for Ancient Rome
1/13/2026, 10:13:35 PM
Introduction to the House of the Griffins
The House of the Griffins, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman homes located on Palatine Hill, is set to open to the public for the first time through a series of livestreamed tours. This domus, dating back to between the 2nd and 1st centuries B.C., was discovered during early 20th-century excavations and remained hidden underground after Emperor Domitian constructed his palace atop it in the 1st century A.D. The livestreamed tours will allow visitors to explore its intricate frescoes and mosaics, which include a notable arched lunette fresco featuring two griffins—mythological creatures that are half-eagle and half-lion.
The Livestream Experience
Beginning March 3, 2026, the livestreamed tours will occur weekly on Tuesdays, with sessions available in both Italian and English. Each tour will be limited to a dozen participants, requiring prior reservations and an additional ticket beyond the standard entrance fee for the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. The tours are designed to protect the delicate frescoes from humidity and carbon dioxide by limiting the number of visitors physically present in the underground rooms. A guide, equipped with a head-mounted device, will navigate the space while providing commentary, allowing viewers to experience the domus virtually.
Architectural Significance and Restoration
The House of the Griffins is noted for its high level of decoration, reminiscent of the elegant homes found in Pompeii. The frescoes feature vibrant faux marble designs and intricate floor mosaics. Federica Rinaldi, the project chief, emphasized the architectural significance of the house, stating, “Its location at the highest point of the hill, its distribution over several levels that take advantage of the slopes of the Palatine Hill itself, and its preservation make it today an almost textbook reference.” This restoration is part of a broader initiative funded by the European Union, which includes ten projects aimed at enhancing the archaeological park and distributing tourist traffic away from the heavily visited Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Broader Implications
Simone Quilici, head of the archaeological park, remarked on the importance of this initiative, stating, “It’s a great occasion to value the full territory of the park.” By promoting lesser-known sites like the House of the Griffins, the project aims to enrich the visitor experience and preserve the integrity of Rome's historical sites.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Its location at the highest point of the hill, its distribution over several levels that take advantage of the slopes of the Palatine Hill itself, and its preservation make it today an almost textbook reference,” — Federica Rinaldi, Project Chief
- “It’s a great occasion to value the full territory of the park,” — Simone Quilici, Head of the Archaeological Park
The introduction of livestreamed tours marks a significant step in making ancient Roman history accessible to a wider audience while ensuring the preservation of its cultural heritage.
