Casa Romana

Casa Romana is an impressive and beautifully restored Roman villa located in Kos Town, Greece. Dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, the villa is one of the most significant archaeological sites on the island, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Roman elite in ancient Kos.

History and Discovery

The villa was discovered during excavations that followed the devastating earthquake of 1933, which revealed several ancient ruins across Kos. Casa Romana was one of the most remarkable finds, as it was a well-preserved example of Roman architecture and domestic life.

Archaeologists believe that the villa was built on the foundations of a Hellenistic house and later expanded during the Roman period. The complex would have belonged to a wealthy Roman family, likely one that held a high social status on the island.

Architecture and Design

Casa Romana is a large structure with over 30 rooms, including living quarters, courtyards, and bathing areas, all designed around three central atriums or peristyles. The villa’s layout is typical of Roman architecture, featuring:

• Peristyles: The house has three peristyle courtyards surrounded by columns, which were open-air spaces where the family could relax or entertain guests. Each peristyle is beautifully decorated with mosaics and sculptures.
• Mosaics: Some of the most striking features of Casa Romana are the intricate mosaic floors that depict various scenes, including animals like tigers, panthers, dolphins, and mythological figures. These mosaics reflect the wealth and artistic taste of the villa’s owners.
• Frescoes: The walls of the villa were originally decorated with colorful frescoes, some of which are still visible today. These murals showcase traditional Roman designs and themes, adding to the grandeur of the home.
• Private Baths: Like many Roman villas, Casa Romana had its own private bathing facilities, including marble-lined rooms that were likely used as baths or for grooming rituals.

Restoration

Casa Romana was extensively restored in the 20th century, and the site is now open to the public as a museum. The restoration work has successfully preserved much of the villa’s original beauty, particularly the mosaic floors and architectural elements. Visitors can walk through the villa’s rooms and courtyards, gaining a real sense of what life would have been like for its inhabitants.

Significance

Casa Romana provides valuable insight into Roman life and culture on the island of Kos during the height of the Roman Empire. The villa is one of the best-preserved Roman houses in Greece, and its mosaics and architectural details are exceptional examples of Roman art and luxury.

The house also shows the blending of Roman and Greek influences, as Kos was an important center in both the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The villa’s design incorporates traditional Roman elements, while also reflecting the island’s own cultural heritage.

Visiting Casa Romana

Today, Casa Romana is one of the top tourist attractions in Kos Town. The villa is located within walking distance of other historical sites like the Ancient Agora, the Roman Odeon, and the Castle of Neratzia. Informative signs guide visitors through the site, explaining its history, design, and significance.

Walking through Casa Romana gives visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine the daily life of a wealthy Roman family in ancient Kos. The peaceful courtyards, intricate mosaics, and elegant rooms make it a fascinating site for history lovers and travelers alike.

Interesting Facts

• The villa’s mosaics feature animal motifs and scenes from mythology, a common theme in Roman art.
• Casa Romana is believed to have been damaged and abandoned after a series of earthquakes in late antiquity.
• The villa was part of a larger Roman neighborhood in Kos, with other Roman ruins nearby, including baths and public buildings.

Casa Romana is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture, offering a rare chance to explore a Roman villa in remarkable detail while enjoying the historical richness of Kos.

Location