Caligula’s Secret Garden Found: A Glimpse into the Roman Emperor’s Extravagance

Learn what this Roman emperor's secret garden meant to Roman society and why the discovery speaks to ancient Roman life.

By Jake Parks
Feb 6, 2025 5:00 PMMar 5, 2025 7:46 PM
Tiber river and Caligula's secret garden
The Tiber River in Rome, Italy near Caligula's secret garden. (Credit: Calin Stan/Shutterstock)

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Deep beneath the streets of Rome near the Vatican, overlooking the banks of the Tiber River, Italian archaeologists have uncovered a hidden gem of Roman history — Caligula’s secret garden.

This 2,000-year-old marvel, buried for centuries, offers a rare glimpse into one of Rome's most infamous rulers. Known for his excesses and controversial reign, the discovery of Caligula’s Garden not only illuminates his world but also sheds light on the opulence of ancient Roman life.


Read More: 5 of the Most Ruthless Rulers in Ancient History

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