Discovery of an archeological gem
The roof of the Roman villa of the Munts, located around Tarraco, is one of the most extraordinary findings in the Iberian Peninsula, emphasizing its uniqueness and state of conservation. This piece, which decorated a basement room, presents frescoes painted on mortar and a relief of exceptional artistic quality.
A trip in time of 2,000 years
After a structural collapse, the roof remained intact on the ground, an unusual situation considering that almost two millennials have passed. The restoration tasks are currently being completed, with 90% of the recovered fragments, although they had initially been fragmented into approximately 3,000 pieces.
A Space Dedicated to History and Art
At the end of 2026, the new Tarraco Archaeological Museum will open its doors, where this roof will be one of the main attractions. Thirty years after their discovery during the 1996 excavations, the public will be able to admire this treasure for the first time in the renewed museum located in the Plaza del Rei.
Artistic and symbolic details
Josep Anton Remolà, conservative of research of the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona (MNAT), emphasizes that the roof, five meters long and three wide, presents a complex craft with four representations of the seasons of the year, flanked by figures of Ménades, associated with the Bacchus festivals. Its elaboration is an example of the typical artistic sophistication of Roman villas.
Varied functions to the Long of its existence
Investigations have revealed that the room where the roof was located fulfilled several functions over time. Initially, it was used for minor guests, while later, during its last stage, it was transformed into a slave space. Remolà notes that his conservation is an unusual event, attributable to the vicissitudes of history.
A meticulous restoration process
Currently, the restoration is held at the MNAT facilities, with the aim of preparing the roof for transfer to the new museum. Director Mònica Borrell explains that the process involves a complex cleaning and recomposition work of fragments, which must be presented in a way that reflects their artistic quality.
An immersive presentation
The roof will occupy a space dedicated to the Roman villas of Tarraco, and its design seeks to remember the greatness of this ancient civilization. In addition, a painting of a cistern will be exposed that will complement the vision of life in the villa, which we still know exactly its function in relation to the Roman capital.
An artistic and cultural legacy
The roof of the seasons is comparable to other iconic works such as the mosaic of fish, not only because of their artistic quality, but also because of their archeological and symbolic value. Its preservation is an exceptional testimony of Roman culture, which is difficult to find outside areas such as Naples or Pompeii. Its imminent presentation to the public promises to be a memorable moment for the community and lovers of history.