Domus Transitoria Archaeological Site

Address: Rome central archaeological area (Palatine/Colosseum vicinity)

The Domus Transitoria was an imperial Roman palace initiated under Emperor Nero in the 60s AD to link his residences on the Palatine and the Esquiline Hills. It served as Nero’s initial palace project after the Great Fire of Rome and preceded the larger Domus Aurea.

Remains of the Domus Transitoria survive in the archaeological layers of the Palatine area, where later imperial building campaigns altered and covered earlier structures. Excavations have exposed fragments of corridors, decorative plaster and the layout that informed subsequent palace construction.

Constructed under Nero’s direction in the mid 1st century AD, the complex was adapted and largely replaced during later emperors’ projects, most notably by the Domus Aurea after the fire of AD 64. Over time the site was built over by imperial monuments and later excavations have revealed its subsurface traces.

The Domus Transitoria lies on Rome’s Palatine Hill, within the modern archaeological park close to other imperial remains; it is accessed through the broader network of Palatine and Roman Forum excavations in central Rome.

• Imperial palace remains: Built as Nero’s first imperial palace and part of Rome’s Palatine Hill archaeological complex; surviving elements are visible beneath later structures.
• Archaeological context: Excavations reveal early foundations and decorative fragments that were later incorporated or superseded by the Domus Aurea.

The Domus Transitoria is in central Rome on the Palatine Hill near the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Access is via the main archaeological park entrances at the Colosseum/Palatine; check the Parco archeologico del Colosseo for tour bookings and access details.

• Combine with other central Rome sites; the Domus Transitoria lies beneath layers that are often best appreciated with a guide.
• Check for specialized opening times - archaeological sites in Rome sometimes open for limited periods or by appointment.
• Wear soft-soled shoes and bring a jacket: underground areas can be cool and damp.