Built as a retreat for Roman Emperor Adrian in the 2nd century, it became a ruin after the fall of the Roman Empire. Borrowing very heavily from Greek and Egyptian architecture and mythology, the complex houses more than 30 buildings over one square kilometre, much of the land still unexcavated. There are palaces with Corinthian columns, thermae, a theatre, temples and state rooms. The Maritime Theatre is a little private sanctuary with moat, guarded by a round portico with barrel vault supported by pillars. Barrel vaults and domes abound, as well as underground tunnels. Perhaps the most notable are the pool and grotto (Serapeum), with its perculiarly-shaped dome.

Written by  George Monkhouse.

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