Vast ancient fresco and mosaic complex opens to public in Rome

• Rome’s largest fresco and mosaic complex has been opened to the public for the first time.
• The newly restored ‘Painted City’ fresco and the ‘Great Mosaic’ were first uncovered during 1990s excavations inside an underground gallery at the Baths of Trajan.
• Mayor Robert Gualtieri unveiled the works, with the site set to be initially visited by small groups of 15 during a weekend trial period beginning this month.
• “They are truly unique in the world, both from the point of view of artistic beauty and the historic and documental importance,” Mr Gualtieri said.
• Dedicated by Emperor Trajan in 109 AD, the Baths of Trajan extended over six hectares and were at the time the largest bath complex in the world.

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Rome’s largest ancient fresco and mosaic complex opens to public