Today I’m taking you to see a place near Rome, a well- known one by many but not by me (I discovered it few months ago, just for a coincidence: Lucus Feroniae (also called “Locus Feroniae”).It is an archaeological site located along the Via Tiberina, at km 18,500, near the exit of Fiano Romano on the A1 Rome-Milan motorway.
The site was discovered in 1961 during the excavations for the construction of the highway.The name “Lucus feroniae” comes from the sanctuary of the goddess Feronia, protector of health and of the fields, which in ancient Rome was worshipped by slaves and freedmen. The sanctuary was located in a frontier near the capital city. There’s a (little) car park, the entrance is free and the tour is guided through a predetermined path: first of all, the visitors pass into a small museum, with a very nice set-up in the objects display and lighting; also, the explanations are very accurate (and written both in Italian and English).
After the museum, there are the ancient remains: visitosr may see see the basilica, the ancient forum and the ancient baths. The route is pretty much led by a little walkway and in various places, such as the basilica, the forum and the baths, there are explanatory panels (both in Italian and English). Within 200 metres there is the “Villa dei Volusii”, located near the service area “Feronia” and reacheable thanks to a little overpass above the Tiberina. Unfortunately, however, it isn’t always possible to visit the villa: it depends on whether there is enough staff available to take tourists there! Would I recommend you a visit to Lucus Feroniae?
Absolutely yes! It is very close to Rome (it takes up to 40 minutes by car to get there) and it is one of the many places to visit for those who want to discover more of that ancient time. I also recommend, however, to call (06/9085173) to see if you can visit the Villa. Unfortunately there are no official sites or blogs, but I found a Facebook fanpage. I’m closing this shor post with a few more photos taken during my visit.
PS: I almost forgot .. If you go in summer, definitely bring a hat with you!