Medieval papal palace unearthed in Rome during basilica renovations
The remains of a palace, a medieval residence of the popes, have been discovered in Rome. The Lateran was where the Church leaders lived before moving to the Vatican. “Every stone tells us a story,” the Italian Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, commented on the discovery.
While renovating the square around the Basilica of St. John Lateran in the centre of Rome, archaeologists discovered an advanced hidden structure surrounded by walls.
Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of the medieval papal palace, which served as the office of successive popes long before the Vatican.
The new discoveries at Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano are further proof of the richness of Rome’s territory, an inexhaustible mine of archaeological treasures - said Italian Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, in a statement.
Discovery in Rome: The papal palace at the Lateran
Italian officials believe that the remains of the palace may date back to Emperor Constantine. The ruler began overseeing the construction of the building in the 4th century, according to his vision.
The palace was expanded and renovated multiple times during the medieval period and ultimately became the papal residence. Successive popes resided there until 1305, when it was temporarily moved to Avignon (southern France). In 1377, Pope Gregory XI moved the seat of the head of the Catholic Church back to Italy, this time to the Vatican.
Every single stone speaks to us and tells its story: thanks to these important discoveries, archaeologists will be able to learn more about our past. I would like to express satisfaction with the dedication and passion researchers put into their work. It is essential to combine the protection of our history with the need to protect and modernize the urban fabric," Sangiuliano concluded.
