Pantheon, the imperial pavement of the square is exposed

(ANSA) - ROME, MAY 05 - The Pantheon continues to reveal hidden wonders: the archaeological investigations carried out at the opening of a hole in Piazza della Rotonda have brought to light the ancient imperial flooring.
   The seven travertine slabs, which are located at a height of approximately 2.30 / 2.70 meters below the road surface with dimensions of about 80 by 90 centimeters for a thickness of 30 centimeters, were first found in the 90s of the last century on the occasion of the construction of a tunnel of underground utilities, and the excavation was detected and documented.
   "After more than twenty years from their first discovery - explains Daniela Porro, Special Superintendent of Rome - the slabs of the ancient pavement of the square in front of the Pantheon emerge intact, protected by a layer of pozzolanafine. An unequivocal demonstration of how important archaeological protection is, not just one opportunity of knowledge, essential for the conservation of the testimonies of our history, an invaluable patrimony in particular in a city like Rome ".
   In imperial times the square was much larger than the present one and opened in front of the Pantheon, the temple dedicated to all of the gods built by Agrippa between 27 and 25 BC. The area was completely renovated in the second century after Christ by the emperor Hadrian, and the square was also raised and paved again. The altitudes to which the slabs are located, which have now been brought to light, appear to be pertinent to the complex phase.
   The construction site at first headed by the I Municipio, then delivered to Acea, will continue in the next few days for water recovery and with further archaeological investigations by the Special Superintendency of Rome in collaboration with the Capitoline Superintendence for Cultural Heritage. (HANDLE).