Palatine Hill Question
 

Hi everyone. I am labeling my photos from Rome and have a shot of a small two story "modern" building on Palatine Hill. It is to the right of the Palatine Museum and overlooks the Circus Maximus. It has an archway attached to it from an obviously much older building and it also has a two story portico. Can anyone tell what this building is and any significance it may hold. Thank you. Keith

The "modern" building is mid-1500's:), it's all that remains of the "Farnese Lodge".
The arch on the northside of that bldg I'm certain was an entrance way from one of the fountain courts (nymphaeum) into the banquet hall (triclinium) of Domitian's Palace.
It was one of the most beautiful rooms in the Palace where Domitian held *lavish* feasts. Regards, Walter

Thanks, Walter. I don't understand why such a prominent feature on the top of the Palatine Hill (ancient or otherwise) isn't mentioned in any guide books to explain what it is or why it's there. Thanks again. Keith

Just to verify... I found this pic on a website that shows the structure that I am talking about. Thanks, Keith

http://www2.siba.fi/~kkoskim//rooma/pages/227_016B.HTM

Hi KE1TH: That's the one:).
I remember how out of place that bldg looked the 1st time I saw it. So when I read your post I knew exactly what bldg you meant:).
Renaissance and Medieval bldgs were demolished on the Palatine and in the Forum to uncover the ancient Roman ruins. That small section of the "Lodge" was saved because of some renaissance paintings or decorations inside.
I guess most guidebooks don't mention it because it is closed to the public.
If this is the arch you meant www2.siba.fi/~kkoskim//rooma/pages/167_003B.HTM it would have been an entrance into the fountain court from outside, not into the banquet hall. Regards, Walter