Horrea Piperataria – Colosseum Arcaeological Park | Roma, Italy

Horrea Piperataria – Parco Archeologico del Colosseo

The Horrea Piperataria are ancient Roman storehouses located within the Parco Archeologico del Colosseo in Rome. Situated on the slopes of the Velia hill between the Esquiline and Palatine, these structures were used for the storage of precious spices such as pepper and incense, highly valued in Roman society. Historical sources like Pliny and Cassius Dio refer to these storerooms as central to the trade of exotic goods arriving from regions like Egypt and Arabia. The site offers an engaging visit through a multimedia experience that illustrates the evolution of the area and its role in Roman urban and commercial life. Accessible via the Vicolo delle Carine, the Horrea Piperataria provide insight into the importance of spices not only for culinary use, but also for ritual and medicinal purposes in the Roman world. The visit sheds light on the broader context of trade, pharmacology, and everyday life in ancient Rome.