| Atrium - Villa of Poppaea, Oplontis |
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Photos by
Laura Maish and William Storage Email us about this page |
The Villa of Poppaea was built during the 1st century B.C. and enlarged until its destruction in August 79 C.E. An inscription on an amphora revealed that its owner was Poppaea Sabina, second wife of emperor Nero. The villa was not occupied during the eruption, apparently having been undergoing repairs from an earthquake at the time. This atrium (Room 5) was part
of the original structure. Its central opening (compluvium) allowed
rain water to collect in a tank in the floor (impluvium). Much of the
white mosaic floor with polychrome border has survived. The walls are
painted with false columns, doorways, and decorative shields with images
of deities. |
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| Copyright 2007 William Storage. Created 8/11/2007 |
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