The Horti of Sallust

Ancient garden retreat meets modern gatherings

By Andrea Werther

In ancient Rome, horti were more than gardens. They were elegant urban retreats; villas surrounded by landscaped parks where wealthy Romans could escape the bustle of city life. One of the most fascinating examples survives beneath today’s Piazza Sallustio, bringing together layers of Roman, Renaissance, and modern history.

The area was once home to the Horti of Julius Caesar, later enlarged by the historian Sallust and, centuries afterwards, by Emperor Hadrian. Abandoned during the Middle Ages, it was eventually transformed by Renaissance and Baroque villas before becoming part of the modern Sallustiano district.

About 15 metres below the present-day piazza, the Aula Adrianea offers a glimpse into this long-lost world. At its heart is a spectacular circular hall crowned by a shell-shaped vaulted ceiling, while the surrounding remains reveal traces of mosaics, frescoes, windows, and a grand staircase leading to floors, disappeared over time.

Carefully restored and given a new life, the Aula Adrianea is now open to the public as a venue for cultural events and conferences. Modern facilities have been discreetly integrated into the ancient structure, allowing visitors to experience an extraordinary piece of Rome’s past without sacrificing its historic character.

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