The House of Augustus was discovered by archaeological excavations in the 1960s and, since then, exposure to harsh weather, pollution, and biological organisms has caused serious deterioration of the painted surfaces. Continued water infiltration posed the biggest risk to both the structural and decorative elements within the ruins. (...)
The House of Augustus was discovered by archaeological excavations in the 1960s and, since then, exposure to harsh weather, pollution, and biological organisms has caused serious deterioration of the painted surfaces. Continued water infiltration posed the biggest risk to both the structural and decorative elements within the ruins. The Sorprintendenza Archeologica di Roma created a comprehensive restoration and management plan for the site, which included installing protective roofing, stabilizing the structure, conserving the wall paintings, and designing a visitation route through the house with lighting and information panels. WMF supplied a grant in 2008 to contribute to this colossal effort. Managed by the Sorprintendenza, WMF funding was used to conserve the wall paintings, returning them to vibrant color, and identify surviving floor mosaics. At the time, the condition of the original flooring was only partially known due to years of accumulation, and intact mosaics existed in several rooms and the inner courtyard. The House of Augustus opened to the public in 2008.
