Cossidetti Naumachie
Museum | Taormina | Sicily | Italy
The "Cossidetti Naumachie" in Taormina, Sicily, are the remains of an ancient Roman structure originally known as "Naumachia". The name "Naumachia" literally means "sea battle" and was incorrectly assigned to this structure due to a large water basin found here. In reality, the basin was not used for staging sea battles, but rather served as a reservoir supplying water to the gymnasium and the city.
Architecture and Function
The Naumachie consists of a 130-meter long and 5-meter high brick wall built in the 1st century BC. It enclosed the gymnasium and featured 18 niches adorned with statues of gods and heroes. These niches served as decorative elements contributing to the aesthetic impact of the structure.
Significance and Visit
The Naumachie is the second oldest structure in Taormina after the Greek theater, and it is a significant testimony to Roman architecture and engineering. It offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of the city and is a popular site for archaeology and history enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The "Cossidetti Naumachie" in Taormina are an impressive relic of Rome's past and a valuable cultural heritage of Sicily. Their preservation allows for the admiration of Roman architecture and aesthetics, and provides insights into ancient life in Taormina.
