Vitruvius' Basilica discovered in Italy

The Basilica described by Vitruvius in his 'De Architectura' has emerged from the excavations in Piazza Andrea Costa in Fano: the only building definitively attributed to the Roman architect. The official announcement came during a press conference at the Montanari Media Library, attended by the President of the Marche Region, Francesco Acquaroli; the Mayor of Fano, Luca Serfilippi; the Superintendent, Andrea Pessina; and the Minister of Culture, Alessandro Giuli, who attended via live link. During the excavations related to the redevelopment of Piazza Andrea Costa, the Roman basilica described by Vitruvius was identified with certainty, with a rectangular plan and perimeter colonnade: eight columns on the long sides and four on the short sides. Final confirmation came with a final survey, which uncovered the fifth corner column, confirming the building's position and orientation between the two squares. The columns, approximately five Roman feet in diameter (147–150 cm) and approximately 15 meters tall, rested on pillars and pilasters supporting an upper floor. The planimetric reconstruction, based on Vitruvius' description, was accurate to within centimeters. This identification is part of a research process that began years ago: already in 2022, on Via Vitruvio, the discovery of imposing masonry structures and precious marble floors had highlighted the presence of high-quality public buildings. The investigations will continue at the construction site funded by PNRR funds.