Archaeologists exploring the historic districts of Italy’s capital during restoration and renovation work have uncovered the ruins of what was once a grand structure beneath the Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano. Researchers believe that in the Middle Ages, this site may have housed the papal residence, complete with defensive structures and a monumental basilica known as the Patriarchium. It was commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century AD, after he declared Christianity the official religion of Rome, according to the Daily Mail.
According to scientists, the walls were made of large volcanic blocks, which were likely repurposed from even older buildings. Some signs indicate that these walls underwent multiple restoration efforts over time.
The Italian Ministry of Culture reports that during the Middle Ages, the structure was frequently expanded and renovated. Experts also noted that the period when this site served as the official papal residence was marked by strife among Rome’s aristocratic families. Thus, the walls surrounding the ancient basilica may have served a defensive purpose.
“The construction of the structure just described took place over an extended period when Rome was subject to Saracen raids, and there were continuous clashes among aristocratic families, sometimes fierce,” the ministry stated. Officials also mentioned that in 1305, the papal administration was moved to Avignon, France. It returned to Rome in 1377, as reported by the Independent.
Once the papal residence was established in the Vatican, the need for a defensive wall for the Patriarchium diminished. Consequently, it lost its functionality and was buried, with its memory fading for centuries.
“The discovery at Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano is yet another confirmation that the territory of Rome is an inexhaustible
source of archaeological treasures,” the Italian Ministry of Culture declared.
According to the ministry, this finding holds “extraordinary significance” for Rome and its medieval history, especially since large-scale archaeological excavations had not previously been conducted in this region.
“Every stone here tells us its story; thanks to these important discoveries, archaeologists will be able to learn more about our past,” the ministry noted.