Vicus Caprarius: Rome’s Hidden City of Water

 

Tucked just meters from the iconic Trevi Fountain lies a hidden archaeological gem that offers a rare glimpse into the ancient layers of Rome’s past: Vicus Caprarius, also known as the City of Water. This fascinating site, largely unknown to many visitors, was unearthed less than two decades ago, during construction work for a nearby cinema. What the builders discovered beneath the modern streets was not just another Roman ruin, but a complex that speaks to the ingenuity of ancient Roman engineering and the evolution of urban life over centuries.

The City of Water, located in the heart of Rome near the famed fountain immortalized in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita, is a testament to the capital’s rich, multi-layered history. As you descend from the bustling streets above, you step back in time, entering an underground world where the remains of a Roman-era building and an ancient water reservoir transport you to the time of emperors, fires, and architectural marvels.

 Unearthing the City of Water

The discovery of Vicus Caprarius was a chance event that occurred in the early 2000s. As crews dug into the earth for the construction of a new cinema, they began to uncover what would eventually be recognized as part of Rome’s ancient water management system. Archaeologists were soon called in to oversee the excavation, and what they found exceeded expectations. Below the surface lay the ruins of a sprawling complex dating back to the Roman Empire, including a large water reservoir that played a crucial role in the city’s infrastructure.

One of the standout features of Vicus Caprarius is the ancient water cistern that gave the site its nickname, the City of Water. This reservoir, fed by the Aqua Virgo, one of Rome’s eleven aqueducts, was used to supply water to the surrounding areas, including the nearby baths and homes. The Aqua Virgo, constructed in 19 BC, still feeds the Trevi Fountain today, demonstrating the enduring significance of Roman engineering.

But the site offers more than just a glimpse into the city’s water system. What archaeologists discovered was a living, breathing piece of ancient Rome, a place that evolved over centuries in response to the changing needs of the city and its inhabitants.

 From Fire to Rebirth: The History of Vicus Caprarius

The history of Vicus Caprarius is deeply intertwined with one of the most catastrophic events in Rome’s history: the Great Fire of 64 AD. This massive blaze, which ravaged large portions of the city, provided an opportunity for Emperor Nero to reimagine Rome’s urban landscape. In the wake of the fire, Nero initiated extensive reconstruction efforts, and the site where Vicus Caprarius now stands became home to a new multi-story residential building, known as an insula.

The insula, a type of apartment complex that housed numerous families, was an early precursor to modern high-density urban living. These multi-story structures were common in ancient Rome and represented the city’s efforts to accommodate its growing population. The building unearthed at Vicus Caprarius is believed to have been several stories tall, with the lower levels preserved beneath the ground. Housing both the wealthy and the poor, insulae were a microcosm of Roman society, where people from different social strata lived in close proximity.

Over the centuries, the insula at Vicus Caprarius underwent several transformations. By the 4th century, the building had evolved into a more luxurious domus, or townhouse, catering to the wealthier citizens of Rome. The ground floor, once used for living spaces, was repurposed for sanitary facilities, reflecting changes in how the building was used. The upper floors of the domus were likely the primary living spaces, while the lower levels contained storage areas, and, of course, the water reservoir.

 Luxurious Living in Ancient Rome

What makes Vicus Caprarius particularly special is the glimpse it offers into the daily lives of Rome’s wealthier citizens during the later imperial era. Archaeologists uncovered a number of clues that point to the building’s luxurious nature, including decorative walls and marble-clad staircases that suggest a high level of refinement. The discovery of a beautiful floor mosaic on the main level further indicates that this building was a place of social gatherings and domestic elegance.

Mosaics were a common feature of Roman homes, particularly in the homes of the elite. They often depicted scenes from mythology, nature, or daily life, and were a way for the homeowner to demonstrate their wealth and taste. The mosaic found at Vicus Caprarius, though partially preserved, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the period. It also hints at the importance of the building’s main floor, which was likely used to entertain guests and conduct social events.

 A Hidden Archaeological Treasure

Today, Vicus Caprarius is a remarkable window into ancient Rome’s past, and a visit to the site offers an experience that is far removed from the hustle and bustle of the nearby Trevi Fountain. As you walk through the underground ruins, you can see the remnants of the multi-story insula and the water reservoir that sustained the complex. The ancient walls, stairways, and mosaics paint a picture of a building that was constantly evolving, adapting to the needs of the people who lived there over centuries.

What makes the City of Water truly unique is its location. Just a stone’s throw from one of Rome’s busiest tourist attractions, this hidden archaeological site offers a quiet, contemplative contrast to the frenzy above ground. It serves as a reminder that beneath the modern city lies a labyrinth of ancient streets, buildings, and infrastructure, waiting to be discovered.

 Conclusion

Vicus Caprarius, Rome’s hidden City of Water, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient Roman Empire and its unparalleled engineering prowess. From the Great Fire of 64 AD to the later transformations of the site into a luxurious domus, this archaeological site offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the people who once called Rome home. It is a reminder that beneath every modern city lies layers of history, waiting to be uncovered.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, Vicus Caprarius is a hidden gem worth exploring. The next time you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, take a moment to consider the ancient city that lies just beneath your feet, a place where water has always played a central role in the story of Rome.