Ancient Roman palace complex built by Emperor Nero after the great fire of 64 AD
Europe endures a blistering heat wave with temperatures above 40C in several countries. Italy places all 27 major cities on red heat alerts; authorities extend evening hours at Rome’s Colosseum and Pantheon and open cooling measures. Wildfires, drought and energy stress accompany the heat, prompting precautions for residents and visitors.
The Painted City fresco and the Great Mosaic have been restored and unveiled by Mayor Robert Gualtieri. They were discovered in the Baths of Trajan’s underground gallery during 1990s excavations near the Colosseum. A limited public opening begins this month in groups of 15 to monitor humidity and climate impact before broader access.