Atrium - Villa of Poppaea, Oplontis
  Photos by Laura Maish and William Storage
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The Villa of Poppaea was built during the 1st century B.C. and enlarged until its destruction in August 79 C.E. An inscription on an amphora revealed that its owner was Poppaea Sabina, second wife of emperor Nero. The villa was not occupied during the eruption, apparently having been undergoing repairs from an earthquake at the time.

This atrium (Room 5) was part of the original structure. Its central opening (compluvium) allowed rain water to collect in a tank in the floor (impluvium). Much of the white mosaic floor with polychrome border has survived. The walls are painted with false columns, doorways, and decorative shields with images of deities.

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Copyright 2007 William Storage. Created 8/11/2007