Roman Villa of Tellaro

Between Pachino and Noto is the Villa Romana del Tellaro, which is an archaeological site of enormous importance. This ancient Roman villa, dating perhaps to the 4th century AD, is famous for its splendid mosaics, which depict mythological and everyday scenes from Roman times.

At the archaeological site of the Villa Romana del Tellàro the remains of a rich residence from the late imperial age are observed. The site is located south of Noto, not far from theVendicari Nature Oasis. Located below an 18th-19th century farmhouse and brought to light in 1971 by clandestine excavations, the villa, possibly dating from the 4th century AD, was later identified and studied by archaeologists who found splendid mosaics there.

The difficult and lengthy exploration work, which lasted more than two decades, has returned the central body of the ancient complex, organized around a peristyle of about 20 meters on a side. The mosaic flooring of the various rooms features hunting scenes and geometric motifs that call to mind the better-known Piazza Armerina mosaics.