Augustus' birthplace believed found
Pastor Dale Morgan
Augustus' birthplace believed found *
The Associated Press
Wednesday, July 19, 2006 8:20 p.m. ET
ROME (AP) -- A team of archaeologists announced Wednesday they have
uncovered part of what they believe is the birthplace of Rome's first
emperor Augustus.
Leading archaeologist Clementina Panella said the team has dug up part
of a corridor and other fragments under Rome's Palatine Hill, which she
described as "a very ancient aristocratic house."
Panella said that she could not yet be certain that the house was where
Augustus was born in 63 B.C., but added that historical cross-checks and
other findings nearby have showed that the emperor was particularly fond
of the area, she said.
Excavations on the Palatine in recent decades have turned up wonders
such as another renewed Augustus' house, including two rooms with
stunning frescoes of masked figures and pine branches.
Panella said there are at least two houses on the Palatine where the
emperor was known to have lived. Much has yet to be uncovered, hidden in
underground passageways.