The Remains of Bovillae—New Evidence from Old Research

The paper revisits the archaeological site of Bovillae, a once-significant suburban center of ancient Rome closely tied to the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Though largely obscured today by private properties and agricultural transformations, the historical and religious importance of Bovillae is evident from both literary sources and early 19th-century excavations. The article highlights the pioneering work of Giuseppe Tambroni and Luigi Poletti, who mapped and documented the site, uncovering structures such as the circus, theater, and potentially a forum. Particular attention is given to inscriptions linked to the sodales Augustales Claudiales and a misidentified statue of Caligula, all suggesting a locale of imperial cult activity. Later archaeological contributions by Luigi Canina and modern confirmations by Enrico Gallocchio reinforce the idea that Bovillae housed key ceremonial spaces tied to the gens Julia. While the exact function of the main excavated structure remains uncertain—possibly an augusteum, a priestly schola, or the sacrarium gentis Iuliae—the findings collectively underscore Bovillae's role as an important dynastic and religious satellite of Rome.