Villa Romana del Casale

About the museum

The Villa Romana del Casale stands in the inland area of Sicily, in the territory of Piazza Armerina. It was the centre of a large estate with administrative, residential and representative functions. The identity of the owner is uncertain: the most recent studies attribute it to a high-ranking member of the Roman senatorial aristocracy, perhaps a praefectus urbi.

The present layout dates from the first half of the 4th century AD, with extensions after the earthquake of 361–363, and it sits above an earlier villa, datable between the late 1st and the 3rd century. The residence is built on several levels and is organised into four large areas: official reception; administration, with banqueting halls and cult rooms; living quarters, with service rooms; and passageways.

The mosaics, which cover over 3,000 square metres, follow a representative iconographic programme influenced by the art of African mosaicists. Between the 5th and 6th centuries the structures were adapted for defensive purposes. The medieval settlement, known as Plàtia, was destroyed in 1161. The present name derives from the Antico Casale dei Saraceni, a small cluster of houses still attested in the 15th century.

Highlights

• More than 3,000 square metres of floor mosaics
• La Grande Caccia and La Piccola Caccia
• Triclinium and quadrangular peristyle
• Private apartments, baths and gymnasium of the residence
• Basilica and monumental entrance

Permanent exhibition

• Mosaici della Villa Romana del Casale – Route through the late antique residence with the large mosaic floors, including La Grande Caccia, La Piccola Caccia, the Triclinium and the quadrangular peristyle.

Operated by

Parco Archeologico di Morgantina e della Villa Romana del Casale (Regione Siciliana)

Visitors per year

approx. 352,220

Admission & discounts

Fares follow the 2025 Park tariff published on the official website. Teachers have free admission according to the regulations; for other reductions, the website refers to a regional circular. Tickets can be booked online.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The Park’s Service Charter indicates slopes, ramps and lifts at the managed sites (excluding the Museo di Enna). Around 90% of the Villa’s spaces are accessible.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The Villa lies along the provincial road SP 90, a few kilometres from Piazza Armerina.

Amenities & dining

• Wi-Fi: not available

According to the Park’s Service Charter (2023), no Wi-Fi area is available.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit