Excavations restart at Villa Romana di Russi

On May 13, 2026 archaeological fieldwork resumed at the Villa Romana di Russi after a six‑year hiatus. The campaign is funded by the Directorate‑General for Museums of the Ministry of Culture and focuses on research and site enhancement.

Project objectives

The excavations aim to finish reconstructing the villa’s layout and clarify the functions of partially exposed rooms. Main goals include:

• investigating the south‑eastern sector corresponding to a private thermal complex;
• exploring the area east of the ticket office to identify a space to be turned into an educational hortus‑garden;
• determining the full extent of the calidarium and its relationship with nearby latrines and other thermal rooms;
torcularium used for grape pressing.

Significance

The villa is among the largest and best‑preserved urban‑rural Roman villas in northern Italy, with expansions dated between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD. Integrated study of domestic and productive areas will shed light on the estate’s economic organization and its commercial ties to Ravenna’s port.

Public access and guided tours

The archaeological area will remain open to visitors during the works. Special guided tours are planned in the coming months: check the official social channels and the Musei Nazionali di Ravenna website for timetables and booking information.

Practical tips for visitors

• Wear sturdy shoes and suitable clothing for unpaved terrain.
• Respect fenced areas and staff instructions while excavations are ongoing.
• Confirm guided‑tour schedules online before visiting.

Updates: discoveries and tour schedules will be posted on the Villa’s and Musei Nazionali di Ravenna’s official channels.