The House of the Centenary (Italian: Casa del Centenario) is a large Roman private residence located in the ancient city of Pompeii, specifically within Regio IX, Insula 8. It is recognized as one of the most expansive and complex houses discovered during the archaeological excavations of the site.
Discovery and Etymology
The residence was primarily excavated between 1879 and 1881. Its name commemorates the 18th centenary (1,800th anniversary) of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, which occurred during the period the house was being uncovered.
Architectural Layout
The House of the Centenary encompasses approximately 1,800 square meters, suggesting it belonged to a family of high social and economic standing. The structure is characterized by its dual-atrium design and a large peristyle garden. Archaeological analysis indicates that the residence reached its final scale through the amalgamation of several pre-existing houses.
Key features of the layout include:
- The Main Atrium: A large Tuscan atrium decorated with Fourth Style wall paintings.
- The Peristyle: A spacious colonnaded garden that served as the focal point for the surrounding rooms.
- Private Baths: The house contained its own integrated bath complex, a luxury reserved for the city's wealthiest inhabitants.
- Nymphaeum: A dedicated water sanctuary or fountain room located toward the rear of the property.
Artistic Significance
The interior of the house was heavily decorated with frescoes and mosaics. One of its most significant artistic remains is a fresco depicting Bacchus standing beside a mountain covered in grapevines. This image is frequently cited by historians as a rare contemporary representation of Mount Vesuvius as it appeared before the 79 CE eruption.
The house also contains rooms decorated with diverse themes, including mythological scenes, architectural vistas, and erotic art. The variety and quality of these decorations reflect the evolving tastes of Pompeian elites during the 1st century CE.
Ownership
While the exact identity of the owner is not confirmed with absolute certainty, archaeological evidence—including electoral graffiti and inscriptions found on-site—suggests the house may have belonged to Aulus Rustius Verus or a member of the Satrii family. These individuals were prominent figures in the local political and social life of Pompeii.
