In a public park in the east of Rome reached easily by a number 5 or 14 tram from Termini lies a rarely visited site. A vast villa, believed to be an Imperial residence and held to be that of the Gordian family covers a large recreational area on both sides of the main road. Likely beginning its life as a small country villa, the site gradually grew to become a large and lavish Imperial villa, of which surprising fragments remain. Among the remains in the park are those of a large drum-tower mausoleum of the 4th century (similar to others in the outskirts but very well preserved), parts of a bath house and a grand basilica from the Constantinian age. It is refreshing after the busyness of central Rome to take a tram out to a public park (perhaps 3 miles from the walls) and to wander among the remains of the villa.

Access: Public park, freely accessible and open daylight hours.