Daily Archives: October 1, 2009

Numerous news sources have reported the discovery of a revolving dining room from the time of the Emperor Nero in the Roman Forum.

The AP report, as found at CBS News, says,

Archaeologists say they have unveiled what they believe to be remains of the “dining room” of the Roman emperor Nero, part of his palatial residence built in the first century.

Lead archaeologist Francoise Villedieu says her team discovered part of a circular room, which experts believe rotated day and night to imitate the Earth’s movement and impress guests.

Villedieu told journalists Tuesday that the room on the ancient Palatine Hill was supported by a pillar with a diameter of 4 meters (more than 13 feet). She says only the foundation of the room was recovered during the four-month excavation.

The Golden Palace, also known by its Latin name Domus Aurea, rose over the ruins of a fire that destroyed much of Rome in 64 A.D. and was completed in 68 A.D.

I was rather surprised to see several places in the Forum, and on the Palatine Hill, where excavations are in progress. I don’t know exactly where this new discovery was made, but I thought you might get some indication of the massive amount of work going on by noting the scaffolding in this photo.

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Note scaffolding on the hill. Photo by F. Jenkins.

The London Daily Mail online has a much longer article with good photos, diagrams, and a video here.

Biblical and historical information indicates that both Paul and Peter were put to death during the reign of Nero.