What is the oldest ruin in Rome?
Explore the oldest part of Rome and discover the ancient ruins left behind.
Palatine Hill is the oldest part of Rome and is also one of the seven most famous hills in the city! It’s apparently the birthplace of the city. According to Roman myths, the twin brothers Romulus and Remus settled on the hill in 753 BC. After an argument, Romulus killed his brother and then later declared himself the first king of Rome.
What can I see at Palatine Hill?
Palatine Hill was a neighbourhood in Rome that had churches, convents, and houses. Now, Palatine Hill has hundreds of ruins, which were once thriving and impressive areas.
No one has lived here since around 1000 BC. Parts of the ruins have wildflowers and other greenery growing and you may even spot a rabbit jumping around.
Farnese Gardens
The Farnese family used some of Palatine as their own botanical garden. The garden’s name was also called Gardens of the Farnese upon the Palatine, which was one of the first botanical gardens to be made in Europe. Nowadays, you can still see where the garden was, with the current greenery and the wildflowers.
Domus Augusti
The House of Augustus was the two-level home of Octavian Augustus, the first Roman Emperor lived. Augustus’ wife, Livia, had her own home on the hill. Both homes had some of the most stunning and incredible ancient frescoes. Even today you can view some of these frescos!
Palatine Hill Stadium
Not far from Augustus’ house was the Palatine Hill Stadium. The stadium was too small for chariots, so it is believed that it was an elaborate sunken garden. The area was used for private events for the most elite families or even for foot races.
If you go to the stadium now, on the second floor you can still see the original white marble flooring. This really tells you how the area once looked with this incredible looking marble everywhere.
Domus Flavia
Flavian Palace was the house of Emperor Domitian. The palace was gorgeous and sat between Area Apollinis and Domus Augustana. The Domus Flavia was the public part of the palace and from here it took you to the main halls.
After you have explored the ruins of Palatine Hill, check out other ancient ruins and landmarks! Right nearby sits the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and Circus Maximus. If you wish to have a tour of Palatine Hill, you can book an ancient Rome tour and see the Colosseum.
