Archaeological excavations in the Adriatic coastal city of Fano, Italy, have uncovered monumental architectural remains that are thought to belong to the famous basilica designed and built by Vitruvius, one of the most renowned architects and theorists of the Roman period. The building, long sought by scholars, is considered the only structure known to have been constructed by Vitruvius himself, whose ten-volume treatise on architecture has survived from antiquity. The possible identification of this basilica is being seen as a landmark development in the study of Roman architectural history.
In the excavations carried out in the historic center of Fano, archaeologists have brought to light massive marble column bases, substantial wall structures and floor pavements that closely match the dimensions and architectural order described in the ancient author’s text [2]. Researchers are now examining how the remains relate spatially to the Roman forum in order to verify the identity of the building.
In his work De Architectura, the only ancient architectural handbook to have survived intact, Vitruvius provided a detailed account of the basilica he built at Fano, describing its plan, intercolumniations and proportional system. The newly uncovered archaeological evidence offers scholars a rare opportunity to explore how the theoretical principles of ancient architecture were actually applied on site. For additional context and further reading that supports this line of inquiry, see [1].
Sources and further reading
- [1] African Architecture | Tag | ArchDaily
- [2] #27gennaio A 3 mesi dall'avvio del cantiere di scavo archeologico ...
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