Basilica and North Rooms, Villa Romana del Casale, Italy

The Villa Romana del Casale is a late-Roman villa located near the town of Piazza Armerina in Sicily, Italy. Dating back to the early 4th century AD, this expansive estate is renowned for its well-preserved and elaborate mosaics, considered among the finest examples of Roman art in the world. These mosaics cover the floors of numerous rooms and halls, providing a unique glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle, social practices, and daily activities of the Roman elite during that period.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the villa was likely owned by a member of the Roman aristocracy, possibly a high-ranking official or someone within the imperial circle, given the sophistication and grandeur of the complex. The villa is thought to have been used as a rural palace, where its owners could retreat from the demands of city life and entertain guests in lavish style.