Museum Roman "Villa delle Grotte"

Welcome to the Roman “Villa delle Grotte”, one of the many luxurious maritime villas built throughout the Tuscan Archipelago islands by members of the Roman aristocracy- a recreational palace, away from the political commitments and responsibilities of the Capital.

The Villa, dating back to around 20 B.C., is located at the top of the promontory overlooking the Gulf of Portoferraio, 50 metres above sea level. Its construction was probably abandoned around 100 A.D., as no artefacts were found on the site dated beyond this period.

The building extended over an area of two hectares and was divided into two levels. On the plateau there were the residential area and a large garden that extended towards the hillside. On the lower level, a double terraced structure surrounded the Villa in a panoramic fashion.

The Villa belonged to the noble and ancient Valerii family. Aurelia will guide you during your visit. She was the wife of Aurelio Cotta Massimo Messalino, the younger son of Marco Valerio Messalla from whom he had inherited the property. Who better than her to show you all the beauties of this wonderful residence?

I wish you a pleasant visit. Enjoy!