Villa Romana del Casale - Mosaics
While planning our trip to Sicilia, Villa Romana del Casale just outside of Piazza Armerina was a must see. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of 53 in Italy, the mosaics covering the floor of this expansive villa were very well preserved due to a landslide which engulfed the entire complex.
We day tripped over from Caltagirone, about a 45 minute drive through the Sicilian countryside, following signage and "The Google" to arrive just ahead of about 3 other cars and a tour bus. The villa is a one story complex full of beautiful Roman mosaics from the 4th century, easily reached, toured in about 90 minutes, and therefore high on the list of tour groups. We knew this going in but when somebody got their camera briefly tangled in Kathie's hair her buttons were definitely pushed.
The villa's mosaics were crafted meticulously and were truly remarkable, its hard to fathom how much effort went into designing, preparing the materials, composing and executing the floors of this place. Just stunning. And the design of the viewing is really good, basically they have built a walkway on top of all the walls of the villa, enabling you to traverse the entire complex while viewing and preserving the floor. There are some partial frescos on what remains of the walls however the landslide and time have basically decimated the artwork there, however the 1600 year old floors are a masterpiece!
Here are just a few shots and a video of the Great Hall. The Bikini Girls were absolutely fantastic, a great look not only at the attire of ladies of the time but also recognition of women athletes and competition.
Couple of goobers right here:
We day tripped over from Caltagirone, about a 45 minute drive through the Sicilian countryside, following signage and "The Google" to arrive just ahead of about 3 other cars and a tour bus. The villa is a one story complex full of beautiful Roman mosaics from the 4th century, easily reached, toured in about 90 minutes, and therefore high on the list of tour groups. We knew this going in but when somebody got their camera briefly tangled in Kathie's hair her buttons were definitely pushed.
The villa's mosaics were crafted meticulously and were truly remarkable, its hard to fathom how much effort went into designing, preparing the materials, composing and executing the floors of this place. Just stunning. And the design of the viewing is really good, basically they have built a walkway on top of all the walls of the villa, enabling you to traverse the entire complex while viewing and preserving the floor. There are some partial frescos on what remains of the walls however the landslide and time have basically decimated the artwork there, however the 1600 year old floors are a masterpiece!
Here are just a few shots and a video of the Great Hall. The Bikini Girls were absolutely fantastic, a great look not only at the attire of ladies of the time but also recognition of women athletes and competition.
Couple of goobers right here:
This place is well worth your visit.
Ciao a tutti!
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