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Villa De Sanctis – Casilino Park: imperial archaeology in the greenery of Torpignattara
In the Prenestino-Labicano district, between Via Casilina and Via dei Gordiani, the Villa De Sanctis Park contains one of Rome's densest archaeological complexes, mostly hidden underground. In Roman times, the area was called Ad Duas Lauros ("At the Two Laurels"), and was part of the imperial estates of Helena, mother of Constantine. The Mausoleum of St Helena, with its circular brick structure, remains fully visible within the park.
Three levels of history beneath your feet
The Catacombs of Saints Marcellinus and Peter, among the largest in Rome, with thousands of burials and early Christian frescoes, are now open to the public. The area also houses the Columbarium of the Equites Singulares, the necropolis of the Imperial Horse Guards: a collective funerary complex for the emperor's personal guard, featuring partially restored and secured vaults and floors. During the Resistance in WWII, the catacomb tunnels also served as a partisan refuge.
The park today
The grounds feature cypresses, olive trees, dwarf palms, and a small pine grove. It offers a cycling path, a fitness trail, and play areas. The villa itself displays a sundial and Roman epigraphic marble fragments that are still legible on its outer walls.
