Ancient Palace Unearthed in Rome May Have Housed Popes Before Vatican

Archaeologists in Rome have discovered the remains of an ancient palace that may have housed popes before the Vatican was established. The discovery was made during renovations of Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee. The walls, dating back to the 9th to 13th centuries, are believed to be part of the Patriarchate, the residence of ecclesiastical leaders. The Patriarchate included a grand reception hall and later housed the office of the Pope until 1305 when the papal capital moved to Avignon, France. The Italian Ministry of Culture described the wall as being constructed from reused materials and showing evidence of restoration. It was built during a period of aristocratic turmoil in Rome, potentially serving as a defensive structure around the basilica. The ministry considers the discovery to be of "extraordinary importance" due to the lack of previous large-scale excavations in the square. Earlier in July, renovations on Piazza Pia led to the discovery of a garden believed to have belonged to Emperor Caligula, dating back to 37-41 AD. The findings will remain in their original location for further study. Italian Minister of Culture Gennaro Sanguiliano emphasized the importance of these discoveries for understanding Rome's history.