Uncover ancient Roman life beneath a quiet square in the heart of Reggio Calabria.

Discover the Roman Villa and Hidden Treasures

Just steps from the Church of Sant’Anna lies one of Reggio Calabria’s most compelling archaeological sites — the remains of a grand Roman villa dating back to the 1st century BC. This large residential complex, now partially visible, offers a fascinating window into the Roman presence in the region.

The villa’s foundations and layout reveal an opulent dwelling, probably owned by a wealthy Roman family. Moreover, additional discoveries in the same area — including Augustan-era houses and traces of an ancient industrial facility — add depth to its story. Together, these findings show that Piazza Sant’Anna was not only a residential hub but also an active center of production and trade in early Roman Reggio.

What truly makes this site unique is its accessibility and urban setting. As you walk through the quiet square, history seems to rise from beneath your feet. You can still see stone walls, construction fragments, and subtle echoes of daily life from more than two thousand years ago.

Furthermore, the site’s proximity to the Church of Sant’Anna allows visitors to appreciate how Reggio’s layers of history overlap — from the Roman age to the modern city. Whether you are passionate about archaeology or simply curious, this hidden gem offers an authentic glimpse into Reggio Calabria’s Roman past.

In visiting Piazza Sant’Anna, you do more than explore ancient ruins — you connect with a living memory of the city’s evolution, revealed piece by piece through the stones of time.