Hadrian's Villa, for the first time open to the public the Serapeum, one of the most spectacular spaces

In Tivoli, Hadrian’s Villa opened the Serapeum to the public for the first time: the structure was intended to reproduce the Serapeum, or the temple dedicated to the Egyptian god Serapis, located in the ancient Egyptian city of Canopus, and consisted of a large exedra-shaped pavilion with, in the center, a 119-meter-long pool surrounded by a portico with statues. In ancient times Emperor Hadrian used the Serapeum as a place for outdoor parties, especially since the pavilion was also embellished with water features that entertained guests. It is one of the most spectacular spaces in Hadrian’s Villa.

The Serapeum is included, starting March 22, 2019, in the new tour route that reveals to the public spaces that have never been open before, including the Serapeum itself, which until now has been inaccessible for security reasons. The public will also be able to admire the Serapeum’s vault from above and will have the opportunity to observe it from an unusual view: the goal is to bring the 2019 public’s gaze closer to that of Emperor Hadrian. “If the Maritime Theater is the private, intimate and reserved area of Hadrian’s Villa,” points out Villa Adriana director Andrea Bruciati, “the Serapeo is the heart of the mundane. Entering the labyrinth of rooms, tunnels and subterranean passages is basically like entering the rooms of the god. Until now, the Serapeo has always shown its facade, offering a two-dimensional image of itself; now the full depth, organicity and complexity is grasped.”

Admission to the Serapeo will be limited and visitors will be accompanied by Coopculture staff. An additional ticket will be required for the visit.

Hadrian's Villa, for the first time open to the public the Serapeum, one of the most spectacular spaces

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