Caligula's ships in Nemi, or the Italian National Museum of Roman Ships. The city of Nemi is the strawberry paradise of Italy

Not far from Albano lies Lake Nemi. It is much smaller (size is about 1.5 sq. km, and depth is only 100 meters), and it is even more clear from it that this is a former volcanic crater. The high walls of the former crater, surrounding the reservoir, protect it from the sun. And if Albano is a cheerful and bright lake, then Nemi is dark and gloomy. The walls of the crater are so high that the wind does not often disturb the surface of the water.

And we again go to the legendary times, when Ascanius and his father Aeneas came to these places from defeated Troy. Ascanius founded the legendary kingdom of Alba Longa, but his father Aeneas also lived here, nearby. Local residents worshiped the goddess Diana. And they had a sacred grove, a sacred tree with a golden branch grew here. And so Aeneas needed to get to the underworld to Hades to consult with his father. To protect himself during this journey, the goddess Proserpina advised him to pluck the Golden Branch from this sacred tree, which Aeneas did. The journey to the afterlife went well.

Since then, a strange and barbaric custom has arisen. Murderers lived near this sacred tree, waiting for their killers. A certain man, bearing the title of the Forest King, walked gloomily around him all day long until late at night with a stealthy gait, with a naked sword in his hand. It was a priest, and he was waiting for his killer. According to tradition, the priest of the goddess Diana had to be a runaway slave, moreover, he must have killed the previous priest. By committing a murder, he received the title of Forest King. So he lived on, guarding the sacred tree in the forest with a sword in his hand. When a new challenger appeared, he had to break the branch of this tree before he killed the priest. The broken branch of this tree symbolized the Golden Branch, broken by Aeneas before his dangerous journey to another world. It was a sign, a warning, and confirmation of the applicant's right to kill the Forest King and take his place. Therefore, the priest guarded the tree day and night. And the killer, having become the King of the Forest, himself, in turn, began to wait for his killer. They say that an ominous ghost, the guardian of the Golden Bough, still wanders along the shores of the lake, in the shadows of the forests, always waiting for the appearance of his killer.

By the way, something from the once famous temple of Diana has survived to this day, and in 2010, it seems that a grove with a sacred tree was discovered. At least archaeologists assume that this is it.

It's crazy, but this custom still persisted during the time of imperial Rome. When Caligula came to power in 37 AD, this custom still existed.

Caligula was born in 12 AD. e. and at the time of his accession to the throne he was 24 years old. At first he showed himself to be a good and wise ruler, but after 8 months something happened. He fell ill with something, and after that they replaced him. Madness followed madness. The most famous thing is that he made his favorite horse Incitatus first a citizen of Rome, then a senator, and after that he even included him in the list of candidates for consul. And blood flowed like a river - he executed and killed people in droves, even his relatives. Once, for example, he executed the son of Senator Falcon... “for his refined manners and ability to behave with dignity.” His sexual promiscuity was legendary. Although historians do not consider a single fact of his madness and sexual promiscuity confirmed.

Photo from the Internet

In Rome, the cult of Diana was considered “foreign” and not widespread in patrician circles, but was popular among slaves who enjoyed immunity in the temples of Diana. This cult attracted Caligula. He often came to Lake Nemi and began to take part in the rituals himself. And then he even decided that the Forest King had healed and sent a young strong slave to kill him. But even this seemed to him not enough, and he ordered the construction of two ships, so huge that the world had never seen before. To set up a shrine to the goddess on the ship and worship her.

These ships were not supposed to sail into open waters. But they had to withstand enormous weight - after all, one of them was supposed to house the temple of Diana. Therefore, a low draft was needed. The ships were propelled by hundreds of oarsmen.

Photo from the Internet

These were not just boats. These were floating palaces with marble buildings, galleries, green terraces with living trees and grapes. There were marble mosaic floors, under which clay pipes were installed, with the help of which these floors were heated. There was a water supply system with hot and cold water and a bronze tap (very close in design to a modern one), with the help of which the flow of water into the tanks was regulated. The nails used to fasten the wooden elements were treated with a solution that protected them from corrosion.

Photo from the Internet

When in 41 A.D. 29-year-old Caligula, along with his wife and child, was killed, as often happened at that time - the successors tried to erase even the memory of Caligula’s short (only 3 years 9 months) but very extravagant reign. They tried to destroy everything connected with him. And his ships were sunk in the lake. And all documents related to their construction were destroyed. And only rumors and bad fame remained about them. However, information about how and why these ships were sunk is also not preserved. So this is all just guesswork.

Photo from the Internet

In the Middle Ages, the fashion for antiquity came and in 1444, Cardinal Prospero Colonna, knowing the local legends, organized an expedition to Lake Nemi. And the ships were indeed found. Or rather, at first only one ship was found. The Cardinal even attempted to lift it from the bottom, but only tore off a piece of the ship's bow.

A second attempt was made in 1535, and again unsuccessful. They forgot about the ships until 1885, when the British ambassador to Italy, Lord Seyvil, undertook his expedition and with hooks tore off almost all the bronze ornaments, mosaics, gold and marble decorations from the mysterious ship. Subsequently, all these items became the property of British museums and private collections. But the ships themselves remained lying on the bottom.

Photo from the Internet

And then the 20th century came. Underwater archaeologists examined the lake and discovered the hull of another ship. It lay close to the shore and was approximately 60 meters long and 20 meters wide. The ship, once discovered by Cardinal Colonna, was larger: 73 meters in length and 24 in width. The Italian government decided that they are a national treasure. And in 1927, Mussolini ordered the rise to begin.

To do this, they decided to drain the lake. To do this, it was not even necessary to dig a canal - it turned out that on Lake Nemi, as well as on Lake Alban, the ancient Romans built drainage tunnels. They were used. When the bottom was exposed, two rowing vessels appeared. Rails were laid along the bottom of the lake, and the ships were pulled to shore along them.

Photo from the Internet

The scientists' delight knew no bounds. First of all, the uniqueness of these structures, the perfection of forms and craftsmanship were noted. For example, the pine sides of one of the ships were protected from the destructive effects of water by tarred wool and triple lead lining. Many metal parts of the ships were gilded. Products made of bronze and iron had high anti-corrosion resistance. Two rotating platforms were discovered, under one of them there were eight bronze balls moving in a chute. Another platform rested on eight conical wooden rollers, also moving in a trough. Both designs are reminiscent of rolling bearings, the prototype of which was invented in the 16th century by the great Leonardo da Vinci. The purpose of these platforms is still unknown. It is possible that they were used as rotating stands for statues.

Photo from the Internet

The device for lifting anchors also deserves surprise; its design uses a crank mechanism. In all likelihood, this is the first example of the use of a crank mechanism, apart from a hand mill.

Caligula's ships had two anchors. One of them, made of oak, is a classic design with iron legs and a lead rod. Another anchor, also made of iron and wood, was similar in design to the anchors that appeared in the Dutch fleet in the 18th century.

Photo from the Internet

An inscription was found on one of the ship's lead pipes: "Property of Caius Caesar Augustus Germanicus." This is Caligula's full name. So scientists became convinced that they were the ships of the mad emperor. Some inscriptions, however, indicated that the construction of these ships (or retrofitting?) continued even after the death of Caligula.

The Italian government built a huge museum on the banks of the Nemi, where Caligula's barges were exhibited until 1944, when, during the German retreat from the city, the major, the head of the unit stationed in Nemi, burned the galleys before leaving. It was an act of hatred. Senseless and devastating hatred. Very little was salvaged. I found information that this same major, after the defeat of Germany in World War II, found refuge in one of the cities of Germany, where he became a teacher in high school... and taught art history for many years!!!

The museum still exists, but its exhibition is very sparse.

But recently (in the summer of 2011) the museum was replenished with a new exhibit - a huge previously unknown statue of the famous Roman emperor Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, better known by his nickname Caligula, is on display. And they found it by accident. While trying to take fragments of an ancient statue out of the country, the so-called “black archaeologists” were arrested. They were “promoted” and showed where the fragments were found. Scientists went to the site and found the remaining fragments there, and in addition a bunch of other interesting things. The statue depicted a luxuriously dressed young man seated on a cushion lying on a marble throne. Caligula was recognized “by his feet” - the young man was wearing Roman military boots, caligas, because of which Caligula received his nickname (because as a child he loved to walk in them).

Photo from the Internet

In the city of Nemi, located on the lake, there is a small bust of Caligula.

This small town is also considered the “strawberry capital” of Italy.

Photo by SvetaSG

And here you can enjoy the most natural products.

Dedicated to all strawberry and wild strawberry lovers - Nemi (Italy), where dolce vita, or “sweet life” has a very specific taste and aroma. This is the taste of childhood, the smells of the forest and freshly cut grass, the little joys of the summer holidays, when every moment you want to exclaim “Stop, you’re wonderful!”
This is precisely the feeling that arises in Nemi, a tiny town surrounded by greenery, towering above the lake of the same name. Total in 40 minutes drive from This second capital of Italy is located - strawberry-strawberry. Nemi has been famous since antiquity for its wild strawberries, growing on the slopes of a former volcano. Thanks to the unique microclimate and fertile soil rich in volcanic ash, local strawberries are considered sweeter than commercially grown varieties. In addition to strawberries, in Nemi you can enjoy strawberries (also known as garden strawberries), blueberries, blackberries, raspberries: berries, the appearance of which is impeccable, are neatly arranged in small containers, in portions convenient for snacking. They are sold in numerous shops along the way to the main observation deck, next to Palazzo Ruspoli, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Although Nemi is a small town, it is quite possible to combine a gastronomic tour to strawberry paradise with a cultural program. This place is unique for its history, dating back to the 9th century BC, when the first settlements arose on the shores around the lake, the mystical Lake Nemi, associated with the cult of the goddess Diana, and the charm of country life with its unhurried rhythm and more relaxed, conducive to rest atmosphere.

The content of the article:

Where is it and how to get to Nemi
Nemi is a paradise for strawberry and wild strawberry lovers
Strawberry Festival in Nemi
Souvenirs and food in Nemi
History and sights of Nemi

1. Where is it located and how to get to Nemi

Nemi (Italy) is located in the Lazio region and is administratively part of the metropolitan city, formerly the province, of Rome (Italian: Città metropolitana di Roma Capitale), which includes the capital and 121 municipalities - nearby cities and surrounding areas.

Nemi belongs to the famous “castles of Rome” - Castelli Romani, a regional park uniting 13 towns located on the Alban Hills southeast of the capital. The area is a popular tourist destination and today, as in times past, is a favorite holiday destination for the Romans.

Accordingly, the best way to get from Russia to Nemi is by plane to Rome, combining visiting the Eternal City with a voyage to Castelli Romani.

From Rome to Nemi you can get:

by car - rented or order the service of a guide around the outskirts of Rome with a car. This is the most convenient and comfortable way, because... There are no direct public transport routes to Nemi. Travel time will be 40-50 minutes.
by public transport. First option: go from Roma Termini station by train to Albano Laziale station, change to Cotral bus, get off at the 5th stop in Genzano di Roma, a town in the western part of Lake Nemi. From Genzano di Roma to Nemi, walkers can walk (3 km) or take a 5-minute bus ride; Second option: go to the last metro station Roma Anagnina (line A), take the direct Cotral bus to Genzano di Roma (travel time is approximately 45 minutes), then proceed in the same way as in the first option.

2. Nemi – a paradise for strawberry and wild strawberry lovers

God, of course, could have created a more perfect berry, but he created strawberries, noted one English writer.

Strawberries, growing in the forests surrounding Rome, have been known since antiquity. The poets Virgil and Ovid, in particular, noted the Romans' passionate love for strawberries, despite their high cost. But not only the amazing taste of strawberries attracted the Romans, but also the beneficial properties of this plant in the treatment of many diseases. Due to their heart-shaped shape and red color, strawberries were one of the symbols of the goddess of love Venus and were used as an aphrodisiac and ingredient in cosmetics designed to preserve female beauty.

It’s worth making a reservation here right away. Strawberries and wild strawberries belong to the same general genus Strawberries of the Rosaceae family, the whole essence of which is reflected by the Latin name “Fragaria”, which means “fragrant”. When speaking “strawberry,” Russian-speaking people most often mean a plant cultivated by humans (we are accustomed to calling strawberries the large and juicy garden or large-fruited strawberries (Fragaria ananassa), grown in our dachas and at the same time the most popular for production on an industrial scale). In Italian (and also, for example, in English), unlike Russian, strawberries and wild strawberries are not separated at all. Both in Italian - fragole, however, there is a special word for wild strawberries - fragolina di bosco, or fragola di bosco. If you want to try wild strawberries, then be guided by this name.

On the slopes around Lake Nemi, two varieties of wild strawberries are grown - one round and one elongated, as well as the familiar strawberries with large berries (also known as “garden strawberries”). As mentioned above, local strawberries are considered especially sweet. My personal impression is some disappointment: the strawberries looked appetizing and perfect, berry to berry, but they turned out to be not as tasty and aromatic as I would like. Perhaps the whole point is that I happened to visit Nemi in mid-April, while the high strawberry picking season is in May.

3. Strawberry Festival in Nemi

Nemi is a wonderful place that is pleasant to visit at any time of the year. But those who find themselves here at the end of May and beginning of June will be especially lucky, when, after the harvest, the annual Strawberry Festival (La sagra delle Fragole) is celebrated.

The tradition of strawberry festivals in Nemi dates back to 1922. This is a bright and colorful event, including festive processions in historical costumes (women in wide red skirts and white shirts with black bodice), folk and classical music concerts, poetry readings, excursions, performances and entertainment for children. In parallel with the strawberry festival, a flower festival is held, the winner of which receives the “Golden Strawberry”.

The culmination of the festive week is the last day, which usually falls on the first Sunday in June: a large strawberry parade, free distribution of strawberries to everyone from a huge vat filled to the brim with berries mixed with prosecco, and festive fireworks after sunset.

4. Souvenirs and food in Nemi

What can you bring from strawberry heaven? Of course, a pleasant reminder of the trip is a souvenir in the form of a strawberry (magnet, earrings, bracelet, printed towel, etc.) or even the plant itself in a pot.

In addition to jams, syrups, marmalades and the usual dolce with strawberries - from tartlets to gelato, in Nemi you can try strawberry paste, risotto, liqueur and even pizza with strawberry slices. If you stop for lunch at one of the trattorias, try the local specialty - pasta with porcini mushrooms (funghi porcini), tastes excellent.

Lifehack fromY& C Italy: after walking along the picturesque streets of Nemi, grab a glass of cold prosecco with strawberries at the cafe (opposite the observation deck at Palazzo Ruspoli). A luxurious view of Lake Nemi and a refreshing, throat-tickling Prosecco will give you unforgettable moments in style.dolce vita.

5. History and sights of Nemi

Nemi is a charming and very “Italian” town, which is pleasant to walk around, explore the streets winding between low-rise buildings, admire the neat balconies decorated with flowers, drink coffee or prosecco with strawberries in cozy cafes and look into the shops where smiling sellers will chat, It’s like they’ve known you for a hundred years. There are splashes of red and green everywhere – there really are a lot of these juicy summer colors in the strawberry-strawberry paradise.

The area around Nemi was inhabited by people even before the founding of Rome. During the times of the Republic and the Empire, many representatives of the Roman nobility loved to relax on Lake Nemi. They say that somewhere here were the villas of Julius Caesar and his successor Octavian Augustus.

The town itself arose only in the 10th century along with the construction of the fortress. In the Middle Ages, the lake and surrounding areas belonged to members of the Borgia dynasty. Nemi acquired its modern appearance in the 16th-17th centuries. and since then, only cars and satellite dishes on the roofs of houses remind us of the signs of the times. Goethe, Byron, Stendhal, Hans Christian Andersen visited Nemi. The magical lake was captured in their paintings by several artists, including the famous British painter and master of romantic landscape William Turner.

The main attraction of Nemi, of course, is the lake of the same name. Lake Nemi of volcanic origin: the collapsed walls of the volcano crater formed a basin - a caldera, which then filled with water.

The name Nemi comes from the word for grove - nemus in Latin. Indeed, the lake is framed by dense thickets of trees and bushes, and the lake itself is shaped like a neat woman’s mirror, in which on clear nights the Moon is reflected exactly in the center. It is no coincidence that in ancient times Nemi was poetically called "Mirror of Diana"- on the shores of a magical lake arose Sanctuary of Diana Nemorensis(Diana Nemorensis), or Diana of the Forest, patroness of flora and fauna, personified by the Moon.

What can you see in Nemi?

Museum of Roman Ships (Museo delle Navi Romane) , the main exhibits of which are two ships built by the most famous (along with Nero) madman of antiquity, Emperor Caligula in the 1st century AD. Caligula's ships, equipped with sails made of purple silk, were palaces on the water - with marble columns, heating, mosaic floors and even mini-therms. It is still not entirely clear why Caligula needed such large and luxurious ships on such a small lake. According to some assumptions, they were used for entertainment and orgies of the eccentric emperor and his retinue, according to others - for the worship of the goddess Diana, whose cult was especially favored by Caligula (and, perhaps, both together). For centuries the lake kept the secret of ships that were sunk, most likely at the behest of the next emperor, Claudius, who wanted to erase all memory of Caligula, until they were discovered in the 15th century and removed, lowering the water level, already in the 20th century by order fascist dictator Mussolini. Unfortunately, the original ships were destroyed during the Second World War (only a few charred logs and some bronze statues remained), and today we can see not even copies, but 1:5 scale models. According to legend, there was a third ship, which has not yet been found.

Palazzo Ruspoli (Palazzo Ruspoli) – a castle-palace with a high cylindrical tower, dominating the space of the city, visible from almost any point. Built as a fortress in the 10th century by the Count of Tusculum (Conti di Tuscolo - a powerful Italian family that for some time controlled public policy, Rome and the appointment of popes). In subsequent centuries, the palace changed its owners, rebuilt and expanded to suit their tastes. Nowadays, exhibitions and concerts are held in some rooms of the palace.
Piazza UmbertoI(Piazza Umberto I) near Palazzo Ruspoli. Here you can sit in a cafe with a panoramic view of Lake Nemi and listen to live music. It is in Piazza Umberto I that the big strawberry parade begins as part of the Strawberry Festival
Ruins of the Temple of Diana Nemorensis. It’s hard to believe that this was once a large temple complex, decorated with a large number of statues, which included rooms for priests and pilgrims, baths and even a theater. The high priest of the temple bore the title Rex Nemorensis, or "king of the sacred grove", and a claimant to this title could appropriate it to himself by plucking a golden bough from the sacred grove... and killing the previous high priest in a bloody ritual symbolizing the withering and resurrection of nature. Local residents claim that the restless spirit of Rex Nemorensis still wanders somewhere in the forests around the lake, and advise walking along local paths with caution, especially during the full moon.
Church of Santa Maria del Pozzo(Santa Maria del Pozzo). Legend says that they decided to erect the church next to the well (pozzo), from which the spirit of the Virgin Mary appeared

Bronze statue of goddess Diana at the entrance to the city
Gorgon Medusa Fountain(Fontana della Gorgona)
If you come to Nemi with your lover, then do not miss the observation deck, which is called - Lover's Terrace(Terrazza degli Innamorati). The terrace offers a gorgeous view of the valley of Lake Nemi with strawberry plantations, which will serve as an excellent backdrop for your kiss

You can order an individual excursion in Rome or Castelli Romani by car with a guide by simply sending us a request by mail: rome@website, by calling in Moscow +7 910 476 34 33 or in Italy +39 334 8402086.

Once upon a time there lived Caligula, who ruled the Roman Empire from 37 to 41 AD. During this short period of time, he gained the reputation of a cruel leader, known for his eccentric behavior and incredible orgies. Contemporaries claim that he was obsessed with constantly maintaining his image and sometimes implemented the strangest projects, sparing no expense. So, on his orders, three huge ships were built, which launched the small lake Nemi, which was considered holy by the Romans.

At that time, these were the largest ships in the world: about 70 meters long, 20 meters wide. There were stone buildings on them - almost like on the ground. Each of the ships was decorated with marble, mosaics and gilded copper tiles. The ships were equipped with plumbing and hot water flowed from the taps. Certain parts of the water supply were richly decorated with the heads of wolves, lions, and mythical creatures.

Can you imagine? I very much doubt that such ships could really exist. Let's dig deeper into this question...

30 km south of Rome there is a small lake Nemi. This place has long been associated with the cult of Diana. Rex Nemorensis was the title of the priests of Diana of Arricia, whose temple stood near the water. One could become a priest only by stepping through blood - having plucked a golden branch in a sacred grove, the applicant had to kill his predecessor in a duel or die himself. Priest candidates, as a rule, were runaway slaves and did not live long. Suetonius reports that when a particularly cunning and powerful priest “lived in the world,” Emperor Caligula personally chose and sent an assassin to him.

So, historical evidence: The ancient Roman writer and historian Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus describes these ships as follows:
“... ten rows of oars... the stern of each of the ships sparkled with precious stones... they had enough baths, galleries and salons, various varieties of grapes and fruit trees grew”

The ships were propelled by rows of oars and the wind, their masts carried purple silk sails. The ship turned with the help of four huge steering oars, each 11.3 meters long.

Panorama of Lake Nemi.
Caligula often visited his ships, spending time in various, not always decent, activities. According to some historical accounts, Caligula's ships were scenes of orgies, murder, cruelty, music and sporting competitions.

In 41, the extravagant Caligula was killed by Praetorian conspirators. Soon after, his "pleasure ships", launched only a year earlier, were stripped of their precious items and then deliberately sunk. In subsequent centuries they were completely forgotten.

For centuries, locals have spoken of giant ships resting at the bottom of the lake. Fishermen often pulled out pieces of wood and small metal objects with their nets. In 1444, Cardinal Prosperro Colonna, fascinated by the then fashion for antiquity, organized an expedition to Lake Nemi, headed by the then prominent architect Battisto Alberti, who explored the sunken ship with the help of divers and even made an attempt to raise the ship. To do this, a deck was built on many wooden barrels, on which winches with ropes were installed. However, with the help of this simple device, Alberti only managed to tear off and raise to the surface a piece of the bow of the mysterious ship. A century later, in 1535, Signor Francesco de Marchi tried again to explore the ship using a primitive diving suit, but also to no avail. A wooden frame was found, connected with bronze nails, covered with large slabs resting on an iron lattice.”

Researcher Jeremiah Donovan wrote:
“Deep in this lake lie the remains of what some call the galley of Tiberius, others of Trajan, but what actually looks like a group of buildings built on the very shore of the lake.

In 1885-1889, the British ambassador to Italy, Lord Seyvil, organized an expedition to Nemi and, using hooks, tore off many bronze items from the ship. At the beginning of the 20th century, underwater archaeologists discovered the hull of another ship. It lay close to the shore and was approximately 60 meters long and 20 meters wide. The ship, once discovered by Cardinal Colonna, was larger: 71 meters in length and 21 in width. Despite the fact that no written references to these ships were preserved in ancient writings, most historians immediately attributed these grandiose structures to the era of the mad Emperor Caligula, who allegedly used them as floating palaces.

Bronze sculpted heads found on ships of Lake Nemi.
In the 1920s, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini ordered detailed research into the mysterious object. In 1928-32 Considerable efforts were made to drain the lake. At the bottom of the mud, two ships were found: 70 and 73 meters long, and with them many bronze objects. The discovered statues and decorations confirmed that these ships were built specifically for Emperor Caligula.

Their preservation amazed even archaeologists. It became clear how the ancient large ships were built. Many items from that time were found and restored: pumps for pumping out water that came in during the voyage, several bronze items (animal heads with mooring rings), a statue of Caligula’s sister, the head of a Gorgon jellyfish, a talismanic hand that was nailed to the hull of the ship, the head of the she-wolf Romulus. One of the most amazing discoveries was two unique rotating platforms discovered on a small ship. Under one of the platforms there were eight bronze balls moving in a chute. Another platform rested on eight conical wooden rollers, also moving in a trough. Both designs are reminiscent of rolling bearings, the prototype of which was invented in the 16th century by the great Leonardo da Vinci. The purpose of these platforms is still unknown; it is possible that they were used as rotating stands for statues.

And on one of the lead pipes of the small ship an inscription was found: “Property of Caius Caesar Augustus Germanicus” - the full name of Caligula. There is no doubt about the owner.

Among the finds were clay pipes that supported the floor and allowed it to be heated. This proves that large ships were equipped with sophisticated heating systems throughout the ship. During the excavations, a bronze tap was found. He controlled the flow of water into the reservoirs. From there it was supplied through lead pipes to various needs.

A lot of nails were also found, with the help of which wooden elements were fastened; they were treated with a solution, which protected them from corrosion.

The ships were sunk under Emperor Nero or after his death, during civil wars.

The huge structures were moved to a hangar and a museum was opened. Unfortunately, during the fighting in 1944, the museum was destroyed and both ships burned down. The surviving details and bronze decorations can be seen today in the Museo Nazionale Romano.

Caligula's ship in the museum, 1932

The head of a jellyfish, found among the remains of one of Caligula's ships.

Half a century later, interest in Caligula and his ships arose again in Italy. In 2011, police said that “black archaeologists” found an imperial tomb near Lake Nemi and looted it. And just recently, a small lake again attracted attention. Local fishermen said that when their nets reach the bottom, they often catch ancient artifacts. Now the picturesque lake is revived again: scientists are using sonars to examine the bottom, and divers are looking for the third, largest, ship of Emperor Caligula.

Benito Mussolini at the opening of the museum

Palaces of Emperor Caligula

Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, also known by his agnomen (nickname) Caligula, was a Roman emperor, the third of the Julio-Claudian dynasty (since March 18, 37).

In 1444, a new page began in the history of Emperor Caligula and his palaces. This year, as K. Smirnov writes, (journal "Miracles and Adventures", 1995, No. 2), Cardinal P. Colonna learned that at the bottom of Lake Nemi lay the skeleton of a huge ship. This area, which is located in the Albano region, has long been shrouded in an atmosphere of secrets and legends, since the temple of Diana was built in ancient times on the shore of the lake, not far from the ship anchorage.

Fishermen often pulled out pieces of wood and small metal objects from the bottom with their nets. The cardinal was interested in antiquity and therefore organized an expedition to the lake. Divers explored the sunken ship and even tried to lift it, but only the bow was able to be torn off from the ship. A hundred years later, attempts were made again to raise the mysterious ship, but they were also unsuccessful...

In 1885-1889, the British ambassador to Italy, Lord Seyvil, used hooks to strip almost all the bronze ornaments, mosaics, gold and marble decorations from the mysterious ship. Subsequently, all these items became the property of British museums and private collections. At the beginning of the 20th century, underwater archaeologists discovered the hull of another ship.

Ship reconstruction

It lay close to the shore and was approximately 60 meters long and 20 meters wide. The ship, once discovered by Cardinal Colonna, was larger: 73 meters long and 24 meters wide. Reconstruction of one of the ships Despite the fact that no written mention of these ships has been preserved in ancient writings, most historians immediately attributed these magnificent structures to the era of Emperor Caligula, who allegedly used them as floating palaces

Volcanic lake Nemi, south of Rome. Emperor Caligula sailed on this lake on his giant “love boats”

A detail with the name of Caligula found on one of the boats

And on one of the lead pipes of the small ship an inscription was found: “Property of Caius Caesar Augustus Germanicus” - the full name of Caligula. Research conducted in the 20s of the 20th century by divers showed that the ships were really floating palaces with marble buildings, galleries, green terraces with living trees and grapes.

In the south of Rome, near Lake Nemi, where Emperor Caligula had a villa, police arrested a tomb robber who tried to steal part of a 2.5-meter ancient statue. The arrest occurred when the villain was loading a fragment of the sculpture into a car. Thanks to the capture of the attacker, the lost tomb of Caligula was found.

According to the police, the statue discovered by the “black archaeologist” was “shod” in army boots - kaligi, the emperor’s favorite footwear.

According to preliminary estimates, the cost of the statue is about a million euros. It is made of rare Greek marble. This material, as well as the fact that the monument depicts Caligula enthroned in rich attire, gives reason to believe that the statue was in the imperial tomb. After interrogation, the arrested man led the police to the place where he found the statue. Excavations will begin there today...

The capricious emperor, who is said to have made his favorite horse Incitatus first a citizen of Rome, then a senator, and after that put him on the list of candidates for consul, was in the habit of sailing his spectacular ships on Lake Nemi, not far from where he stood statue, indulging its sensual inclinations.

From the first days of his reign, Caligula was attracted by Lake Nemi with the sacred temple of Diana. The lake itself is known as the “mirror of Diana”; her cult as Artemis in Greece began a long time ago. It is associated with the ritual of initiation and transformation. Caligula took possession of this sensual cult; he ordered the construction of a palace for worship near the sanctuary of the goddess. The cult of Diana allowed him to indulge in bloodshed and perversion under the guise of religious worship.

Lake Nemi was the perfect place for this. The palace was not enough, and he ordered the construction of two huge ships worthy of the most powerful man on Earth. According to his instructions, the first ship was to become the floating Temple of Diana, the second a luxurious pleasure boat for the entertainment of the emperor and his guests. Caligula wanted large ships to decorate the lake. There are no written sources about their construction, operation and destruction; Historians attribute the ships to Caligula, based on his reputation and the markings of items found on the ships.

A shipyard was built nearby. The best of the best engineers took part in the construction. The requirements for the ships were extremely difficult: a low draft, and at the same time they must be wide enough to maintain balance under a heavy superstructure. Construction technology was advanced.

Pipes

He controlled the flow of water into the reservoirs. From there it was supplied through lead pipes to various needs. The system was unique and worked efficiently, the only difference being that the crane was 2000 years old. A lot of nails were also found, with the help of which wooden elements were fastened; they were treated with a solution, which protected them from corrosion. The ships were propelled by hundreds of oarsmen.

Nails

Sheathing

There were marble floors and running hot and cold water. These were floating palaces with gilding, mosaic floors, and on the other hand they reflected the technical capabilities of Roman shipbuilders. On lead pipes that were found at the excavation site, scientists saw strange signs that signified the name of the despotic emperor Caligula.

After the restoration, a lot of people wanted to see Caligula's ship

According to the Roman historian Suetonius, the "love boats" were studded with precious stones and had ample space for baths, porticoes, dining rooms, vineyards and fruit trees. Caligula could lie all day on his favorite ship, listening to choral singing and enjoying the dancing.

Portico details, marble columns

The ships were destroyed after the 29-year-old emperor was assassinated in his palace on the Palatine Hill in Rome by his own guards. Imperial ships were sunk as part of the “damnatio memoriae” (Latin for “curse of memory” - a special form of posthumous punishment in Ancient Rome for state criminals).

After fourteen centuries of oblivion, the wrecks of the ships were discovered by Cardinal Prospero Colonna in 1444. The cardinal learned that at the bottom of Lake Nemi, 16 miles southeast of Rome in the Albavo region, lay the remains of a huge ship. Fishermen in this area, which has long been shrouded in an atmosphere of mystery and legend, often pulled out pieces of wood and small metal objects with nets. Local residents used wood as fuel, while the metal was melted down for tools and weapons.

The cardinal, fascinated by the then fashion for antiquity, organized an expedition to Lake Nemi, headed by the then prominent architect Battisto Alberti, who explored the sunken ship with the help of divers and even made an attempt to raise the ship. To do this, a deck was built on many wooden barrels, on which winches with ropes were installed. However, with the help of this simple device, Alberti only managed to tear off and raise to the surface a piece of the bow of the mysterious ship.

A century later in 1535, Lord Francesco de Marchi attempted to explore the ship again using a primitive diving suit. This suit, or rather a wooden bell reinforced with metal hoops, was hung on the side of the boat and covered the diver's upper body. With the help of such a device, the brave de Marchi went down to the bottom and became one of the first people to experience decompression sickness.

Alas, the results of his research were insignificant. He could see almost nothing through the small porthole in the bell, because the water in the lake was very cloudy. A lot of troubles were caused to him by a host of small fish that swam around him, biting her body parts protected by the bell. So, like Alberta, de Marchi tried to raise the ship, but also unsuccessfully: he only caused additional damage to the hull.

In 1885-1889, the British ambassador to Italy, Lord Seyvil, organized an expedition to Nemi and freed the sunken ships from all the most valuable things, stripping almost all the bronze ornaments, mosaics, gold and marble jewelry from the mysterious ship with hooks. Subsequently, all these items became the property of British museums and private collections.

At the beginning of the 20th century, underwater archaeologists discovered the hull of another ship. It lay close to the shore and was approximately 60 meters long and 20 meters wide. The ship, once discovered by Cardinal Colonna, was larger: 71 meters in length and 21 in width.

Despite the fact that no written references to these ships were preserved in ancient writings, most historians immediately attributed these magnificent structures to the era of the mad Emperor Caligula, who allegedly used them as floating palaces.

Research carried out by divers in the 20s showed that the ships were indeed floating palaces with marble buildings, galleries, green terraces with living trees and grapes. After a detailed study of Caligula's barques, the Italian government decided that they were a national treasure.

And in 1927, Mussolini ordered the rise to begin.

Technically, the lifting operation did not seem particularly difficult. Lake Albano, adjacent to Nemi, lies somewhat lower in level. It was supposed to dig a canal from one lake to another, drain the waters of Lake Nemi into Albano and pull Caligula’s ships ashore. The operation began in 1927 and ended in 1932. There was no need to dig a canal to drain Nemi: archaeologists discovered an ancient drainage tunnel, which was used for drainage.

Stern railing

Pumping began on October 20, 1928. The discoveries were destined to shock the world. Both ships appeared for the first time in 2000 years. Their preservation amazed even archaeologists. It became clear how the ancient large ships were built.

Original mechanism with a ball from Caligula's ship

Well-preserved ship wrecks were found at the bottom. The rammed ship was 234 feet (71.3 m) long overall and 220.96 feet (67.35 m) at the waterline. The ship had a beam of 65.6 feet and a draft of 6.2 feet (1.9 m). The other ship, without the ram, was 213.2 feet (65 m) long, 77.4 feet (23.6 m) wide, and had a draft of approximately 6.5 feet (2 m). On the larger one, the oars were located not in the sides of the ship, but in platforms protruding beyond the side - apostiks; there were 4-5 rowers for each oar. The smaller ship had no apostles or oars. It appears to have been towed by a large vessel or a fleet of rowing boats.

Description of the mechanism of the previous photo

After the water was drained from Nemi, rail tracks were laid on its muddy bottom, and along them unique structures were pulled ashore, amazing specialists with the perfection of their forms and mastery of execution.

Another original mechanism

Its description

A lot of items from that time were recovered and restored. Pumps for pumping out water that came during the voyage, several bronze items were found: animal heads with mooring rings, a statue of Caligula’s sister, the head of a Gorgon jellyfish, a talismanic hand that was nailed to the hull of the ship, and the head of the she-wolf Romulus.

Oar from a boat

For example, the pine sides of one of the ships were protected from the destructive effects of sea water by tarred wool and triple lead lining. Many metal parts of both ships turned out to be gilded; bronze and iron products had high corrosion resistance. But, although the hulls of "Caligula's barques" survived, the superstructures were severely damaged both by the weight of the marble products themselves and by attempts to raise the ships to the surface. The following studies, carried out by specialists already on the shore, showed that most likely both ships were rowing galleys. On a large ship (its dimensions are 73x24 meters), the oars were located not in the ship's sides, but in apostikas - platforms that protruded beyond the side. There were 4-5 rowers for each oar.

Restoration of the ship after lifting

One of the most amazing finds was two rotating platforms discovered on a small ship. Under one of the platforms there were eight bronze balls that moved in a chute. The other platform rested on eight conical wooden rollers, which also moved in a trough. Both designs strongly resembled rolling bearings, the prototype of which was invented by the great Leonardo da Vinci only in the 15th century.

Museum after the fire

The purpose of the platforms on the "Caligula's barges" has not yet been established by scientists, although there is an assumption that they were used as rotating stands for statues. On the “floating palaces” of Emperor Caligula, scientists discovered several bronze items, for example, the head of a lion with a mooring ring, a statue of Caligula’s sister, the head of Medusa the Gorgon, a talismanic hand that was nailed to the hull of the ship, and the head of the she-wolf Romulus

The device for lifting anchors also deserves surprise; its design uses a crank mechanism. In all likelihood, this is the first example of the use of a crank mechanism, apart from a hand mill. Caligula's ships had two anchors. One of them, made of oak, is a classic design with iron legs and a lead stem. Another anchor, also made of iron and wood, was similar in design to the anchors that appeared in the Dutch fleet in the 18th century.

Construction technology was advanced.

A special feature was a series of bronze animal heads - small ships moored to them, on which the emperor arrived with his friends. The quality of workmanship was excellent. Among the finds were clay pipes that supported the floor and allowed it to be heated. This proves that the ships were equipped with a sophisticated heating system throughout the ship. During the excavations, a bronze tap was found. He controlled the flow of water into the reservoirs. From there it was supplied through lead pipes to various needs. The system was unique and worked without question, the only difference being that the crane was 2000 years old. A lot of nails were also found, with the help of which wooden elements were fastened; they were treated with a solution, which protected them from corrosion.

It was not possible to determine the exact date of construction of the ships, but, based on the inscriptions on the ornaments, archaeologists established that the ships were built approximately in the middle of the 2nd century AD. On thirteen ceramic slabs in the superstructures, inscriptions were found indicating that they were made by a certain Dame, a slave of Domitix Scam. Afer died in 59, so the ships must have been built before that date. In addition, an inscription was found on one of the lead pipes of the small ship: “Property of Caius Caesar Auguegus Germanicus.” This is the full name of Caligula, who reigned until he was 41 years old. Some other inscriptions indicate that the barques were built during the reign of Caligula's successor Claudius (r. 41–54). For historians, it still remains a mystery when and under what circumstances the ships of Lake Nemi sank. Perhaps they were deliberately flooded to erase the memory of the hated emperor.

For historians, it still remains a mystery when and under what circumstances the ships of Lake Nemi sank. Perhaps this happened during the reign of Nero. During the civil war he started, the ships were plundered and abandoned by their crews. The Italian government built a huge museum on the shores of Lake Nemi, where Caligula's ships were exhibited until 1944...

To mark the extraordinary find, the Italian government built a huge museum on the banks of the Nemi, where Caligula's barges were exhibited after being mothballed in 1944. May 31 - June 1, 1944, during the retreat of German troops, the museum and ships were destroyed by fire. The investigation established only an indirect connection between the fire and the actions of German troops (a German battery located 150 m from the museum was named as the probable cause of the “accidental” fire).

Fragment of a mosaic from Caligula's large ships

Nowadays, visitors to the restored museum are forced to be content with viewing a half-empty museum with models of famous ships, made on a scale of 1:5. This is how the largest and best-preserved Roman ships were found and then lost to history.

The loss of huge ships is truly irreparable. Today the museum has been partially restored, but it still looks empty. Archaeologists have a great desire to restore at least one of the ships exactly. And if their plans come true, then the temple ships will someday go out into the lake again.

In the Palazio Massimo in Rome, in one of the halls, bronze decorations from these ships, steering parts, and beam fasteners are exhibited. The purpose of some parts is unknown.

In the northwest of the hill are the ruins of the Palace of Tiberius (Palace of Caligula), built in the first century AD

All sorts of rumors circulated about Emperor Caligula. His first measures were aimed at the benefit of the state: he generously endowed the people and soldiers, freed the prisoners imprisoned by Tiberius, returned those expelled, promised to be guided by the instructions of the Senate and rule with him, and forgave all those who had offended his father, mother and brothers. And therefore, at first, senators and ordinary people idolized him, called him “dove” and “child.” During Caligula's illness, many noble Romans vowed to fight in the arena and give their lives for his healing.

Although the “Love Boats” are lost forever, Caligula will return to the Roman Ship Museum on Lake Nemi. His colossal statue, cleared of the earth that had covered it for two millennia, will be displayed in the museum for a long time.

There is no reliable historical information that Emperor Caligula was crazy, fantastically cruel and especially sexually promiscuous. After the film about the “monster” Caligula from the cheap film of the same name by Tinto Brass, many were of the opinion that this was actually the case. Tinto Brass's film is a film for the rednecks who do not know and do not want to know history, who unconditionally believe everything, even outright lies. Modern research shows that he was a vulnerable, liberal-minded dreamer, a bad politician and a lousy administrator. Caligula fell victim to an era that was cruel and did not forgive mistakes even to emperors.

And even after his death

The palace of Emperor Caligula on the Palatine was magnificent. The Hall of the Nymphs, for example, was a large round room. In its center there was a pool, in the water of which there was an entire sculptural composition made of marble - the sea god Nereus, surrounded by his Nereid daughters. Both the sea god and his daughters clutched large shells in their marble hands, which spewed out entire fountains of water. A little to the side of the pool, near a large table there was a wide bed strewn with small purple pillows: Caligula loved to recline on this bed. The Hall of the Nine Muses was also imperially large and majestic. Along its walls stood statues of nine muses - patroness of music, dance, poetry and other arts and sciences.

In the depths of the Hall, Caligula sat on a large throne-chair, and a carpet led to the throne - the same one under which the conspirators hid the knife. How fun life was and how inglorious the end was...

Materials used:

korabley.net,kolizej.at.ua,j-times.ru

N.B. Some thoughts about the personality of Emperor Caligula.

Guy Caesar Caligula, who ruled Rome from 37 to 41, is presented to us as a symbol of cruelty and unbridled debauchery. It seems that such an overly one-sided assessment of the emperor’s personality harms historical objectivity. The analysis carried out is based on the study of ancient authors.

On March 1, 37, the Senate transferred power to Gaius Caesar Caligula, from which moment his reign actually began. Reading Suetonius, we are already here faced with the first accusation against Caligula, namely, according to Suetonius, Guy, in order to strengthen his hope of inheritance, “seduced Ennia Naevia, the wife of Macron, who stood at the head of the praetorian cohorts; He promised her that he would marry her when he achieved power and gave an oath and a receipt to this effect. Through her he gained the trust of Macron and then, as some believe, he poisoned Tiberius. The dying man was still breathing when Guy ordered the ring to be taken off him; he seemed to be resisting; then Guy ordered to cover him with a pillow and squeezed his throat with his hands.”

However, two points seem doubtful. The first is the seduction of the experienced Ennia Naevia under the nose of her influential husband. Tacitus in his Analli gives another, more realistic explanation: “Macron never neglected the favor of Gaius Caesar, moreover, he “sought him with zeal.” And it was he who “encouraged Ennia to seduce the young man, feigning passionate love, and bind him with a promise to marry her.”

Second: did Guy really commit the murder of Tiberius? Even Suetonius, the only author who specifically talks about this event, points out that “some believe so,” i.e., there is no complete certainty. Then he writes: “And this is not without plausibility: some report that he himself boasted of, if not a committed, then a planned crime” (again, “some” and a crime in general, perhaps only “conceived”). I think this is enough to raise doubts about the accuracy of the version of the murder of Tiberius by Gaius.
However, let’s assume that Suetonius is right. And Caligula really killed Tiberius. However, this act of his, despite the apparent cruelty, cannot in any way be classified as a crime.

Let me explain: the fact is that, according to Suetonius himself, Caligula tried to “avenge the death of his mother and brothers,” moreover, the death of Caligula’s father Germanicus was “attributed to the treachery of Tiberius.” What could be more natural for the young Caligula than to wait for the right moment to avenge your relatives?

So Guy Caligula came to power. Ancient historians report that “...he achieved power in fulfillment of the best hopes of the Roman people, or better yet, of the entire human race. He was the most desirable ruler for most provinces and troops."
And further: “The rejoicing among the people was such that over the next three months, more than one hundred and sixty thousand sacrificial animals were slaughtered.”

Summarizing the attitude towards Guy in the first period of his reign, Josephus reports the following: “The first and next year of his reign, Guy showed himself to be a magnanimous sovereign and a gentle man, which earned him the deep love of the Romans and subject peoples.”
In general, all authors admit that in the first period of his reign, Caligula was a completely virtuous emperor.
Now let's move on to those actions of Caligula that cause the greatest criticism among historians and give reason to call him a “monster.”

Let's start with the fact that Caligula is accused of excessive wastefulness; they even claim that “huge fortunes and among them the entire inheritance of Tiberius Caesar, two billion seven hundred million sesterces, he squandered in less than a year.”
At the same time, there is a long list of feasts, country villas, etc., which absorbed the said money. However, was this really so?

The most complete and at the same time the most biased biographer of Caligula, Suetonius, makes a similar statement.
However, we read from him: “The buildings begun by Tiberius, he (Gai) completed: the temple of Augustus and the theater of Pompey. He himself began to build a water supply from the region of Tibur and an amphitheater near the sept; His successor Claudius completed one of these buildings, but left the other. In Syracuse, he restored the walls and the temple of the gods that had collapsed from dilapidation. He was going to rebuild the palace of Polycrates in Samos, and in Miletus to complete the Didymaean temple...”

Finally, huge sums were spent on gladiator fights, which was a natural reality of Roman life. Thus, even if we assume that such sums were spent by Caligula, then, in any case, we must admit that a significant part of them was spent usefully.
The next accusation that is brought against Caligula is his excessive cruelty, bordering on mania. However, it is known that having come to power, Guy Caesar “... pardoned all those convicted and exiled; forgiveness has been declared for all charges remaining from past times; he brought papers relating to the affairs of his mother and brothers to the forum and burned them, calling the gods as witnesses that he had not read or touched anything in them; by this he wanted to forever calm all fear among informers and witnesses; and he did not even accept the denunciation of the attempt on his life, declaring that he could not arouse hatred in anyone in any way, and that his hearing was closed to informers.”

Further, Suetonius is the only author who mentions the sophisticated tortures committed by Caligula. But at the same time, he does not name the specific names of the people who were subjected to such torture, but uses expressions like: “many citizens,” “one Roman horseman,” “one senator,” etc. All these omissions cause natural skepticism.

Only a few names are mentioned by both Suetonius and other authors, among them the prefect Macro and Silanus, the father-in-law of Gaius. And both named were executed not due to cruelty or personal hostility, but due to the lack of another way out.

Macron was extremely ambitious and claimed an exceptional position in the state, trying to usurp the functions of the emperor. Philo of Alexandria spoke well about these qualities and aspirations of his: “He (Macron) was overly arrogant... What was he thinking about when he changed places with Gaius and elevated himself, the subject, to rulers, and made the autocrat subject? Each has his own: the ruler is to command, the subject is to obey, Macron turned everything upside down.”

Thus, it is obvious that Caligula was forced to eliminate Macron, as a person dangerous to himself and aspiring to power.
As for Silanus, firstly, he “committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor,” that is, he was not killed and, moreover, while alive, he sought, like Macron, to subjugate Guy to his will.

As the same Philo of Alexandria writes, “This fool (Silan), who was no longer even a father-in-law, interfered in something that did not concern him at all, not realizing that after the death of his daughter he could no longer claim anything.”

As for the suicide of Gemellus, the reason for which tradition also seeks in the machinations of Caligula, it was undoubtedly cruel on the part of Guy, if we assume that he was really guilty of what happened.

However, the Romans themselves, according to Philo, justified the removal of Gemellus as a political necessity. (The goal is to preserve the integrity of the state). However, this is an ethical issue.

The next charge brought against Guy Caligula is the charge of violating morality. This accusation is based on many pieces of evidence, and therefore I will only allow myself to give two examples that contradict this point of view.
Having received full power, Caligula did the following: “He expelled the inventors of monstrous pleasures (the so-called “sprintii”) from Rome.”

These were the same sprints whom Tiberius warmed up. And the second example: Tacitus describes an incident that occurred during the reign of Caligula when “The wife of the legate Calvisius Sabina... was fired up with a dirty desire to see at all costs how the military camp was set up; she managed to get there at night, disguised as a soldier; This shameful disguise inflamed the passion of the soldiers of the night guard and finally became insolent to the point that they began to make love in the main square of the camp...”

Further, Tacitus reports that this act did not go unpunished and the culprit “by order of Gaius was shackled.”
And finally, the last of the serious accusations against Guy Caligula is the accusation of blasphemy. “He began to lay claim to divine greatness,” writes Suetonius. “Moreover, he dedicated a special temple to his deity, appointed priests, and established the most exquisite sacrifices. In the temple he placed a full-length statue and dressed it in his own clothes. The position of chief priest was held in turn by the richest citizens, vying for it and bargaining.”

Suetonius does not specify why the patricians “competed and bargained” over the honor of holding the office of chief priest, if such actions of Gaius were so unacceptable to them. Yes, and similar deifications have already taken place before (Gaius Julius Caesar). During the period of the Principate of Augustus, the “genius of Augustus” was revered in many provinces, and corresponding temples and altars were built.
So the next step taken by Guy Caligula was quite natural. Moreover, Caligula even showed a certain modesty and tolerance.

For example, in Boeotia, a copy of the emperor’s letter to the message of the strategist of the Aschen League was discovered, where he writes the following: “I have become acquainted with the letter that your ambassadors delivered to me, and I note that you have given me proof of great devotion and great respect for me. You made sacrifices and held a ceremony in my honor, thereby honoring me with the greatest honors... As for the statues in my honor that you propose to install, I exempt you from most of them.
Or another letter written by Gaius to the legate Petronius in connection with the unrest in Judea regarding the attempt to install a cult statue of Caligula there: “if you have already managed to erect my statue, then let it stand; if you haven’t had time to do this yet, then don’t worry about it anymore... I’m no longer interested in setting up the statue.”

Thus, there is a clear desire of Guy to eliminate the emerging conflict, even at the cost of self-esteem.
What else can be added to Caligula's defense?

The people loved him very much. “When he fell ill, people crowded around the Palatine all night long; There were also those who swore oaths to fight to the death for the sake of the patient’s recovery or to give their lives for him.” “The boundless love of the citizens was complemented by the wonderful goodwill of the foreigners.”

Caligula cared as much as he could about preserving the historical heritage - “...The works of Titus Labienus, Cremutius Cordus, Cassius Severus, destroyed by a decree of the Senate, he allowed to be found, stored and read, declaring that the most important thing for him was that no event should escape posterity.”

“He allowed the officials to freely rule the court, without asking anything.” “He even tried to return the election of officials to the people by restoring the people’s assemblies.”

Contrary to popular belief, Caligula was not a limited person. He was very erudite and on occasion quoted Greek and Roman poets. “Of the noble arts, he... was engaged... most of all... in eloquence, always ready and able to give a speech... He easily found words and thoughts, and the necessary expressiveness, and voice: from excitement he could not stand still, and his words reached the furthest rows. Starting to speak, he threatened that he would draw a sword, sharpened by night vigils.”

Finally, the last and most surprising thing: Caligula was even credited with the “Latin textbook of rhetoric”

1. Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, Life of the Twelve Caesars. Guy Caligula. 12.2.
2. Cornelius Tacitus., Annals. 6.45.

3. Josephus Flavius, Jewish Antiquities. 18.7.2.

4. Philo of Alexandria., About the embassy to Gaius. I. 10.

5. Josephus Flavius, Jewish Antiquities. 18.7.2.

6. Cornelius Tacitus., History. 1.48.
.
7.Cit. by D. Noni., Caligula. II. IX., p. 244.

Giant ships of Caligula April 24th, 2017

We once discussed places... But now I read a story about another giant ship.

Can you imagine? I very much doubt that such ships could really exist. Let's dig deeper into this question...

Photo 2.

30 km south of Rome there is a small lake Nemi. This place has long been associated with the cult of Diana. Rex Nemorensis was the title of the priests of Diana of Arricia, whose temple stood near the water. One could become a priest only by stepping through blood—having plucked a golden branch in a sacred grove, the applicant had to kill his predecessor in a duel or die himself. Priest candidates, as a rule, were runaway slaves and did not live long. Suetonius reports that when a particularly cunning and powerful priest “lived in the world,” Emperor Caligula personally chose and sent an assassin to him.

So, historical evidence: The ancient Roman writer and historian Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus describes these ships as follows:
“... ten rows of oars... the stern of each of the ships sparkled with precious stones... they had enough baths, galleries and salons, various varieties of grapes and fruit trees grew”

The ships were propelled by rows of oars and the wind, their masts carried purple silk sails. The ship turned with the help of four huge steering oars, each 11.3 meters long.

Photo 3.

Panorama of Lake Nemi.

Caligula often visited his ships, spending time in various, not always decent, activities. According to some historical accounts, Caligula's ships were scenes of orgies, murder, cruelty, music and sporting competitions.

Photo 4.

In 41, the extravagant Caligula was killed by Praetorian conspirators. Soon after, his "pleasure ships", launched only a year earlier, were stripped of their precious items and then deliberately sunk. In subsequent centuries they were completely forgotten.

Photo 5.

For centuries, locals have spoken of giant ships resting at the bottom of the lake. Fishermen often pulled out pieces of wood and small metal objects with their nets. In 1444, Cardinal Prosperro Colonna, fascinated by the then fashion for antiquity, organized an expedition to Lake Nemi, headed by the then prominent architect Battisto Alberti, who explored the sunken ship with the help of divers and even made an attempt to raise the ship. To do this, a deck was built on many wooden barrels, on which winches with ropes were installed. However, with the help of this simple device, Alberti only managed to tear off and raise to the surface a piece of the bow of the mysterious ship. A century later, in 1535, Signor Francesco de Marchi tried again to explore the ship using a primitive diving suit, but also to no avail. A wooden frame was found, connected with bronze nails, covered with large slabs resting on an iron lattice.”

Photo 6.

In 1885-1889, the British ambassador to Italy, Lord Seyvil, organized an expedition to Nemi and, using hooks, tore off many bronze items from the ship. At the beginning of the 20th century, underwater archaeologists discovered the hull of another ship. It lay close to the shore and was approximately 60 meters long and 20 meters wide. The ship, once discovered by Cardinal Colonna, was larger: 71 meters in length and 21 in width. Despite the fact that no written references to these ships were preserved in ancient writings, most historians immediately attributed these grandiose structures to the era of the mad Emperor Caligula, who allegedly used them as floating palaces.

Photo 12.

Bronze sculpted heads found on ships of Lake Nemi.

In the 1920s, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini ordered detailed research into the mysterious object. In 1928-32 Considerable efforts were made to drain the lake. At the bottom of the mud, two ships were found: 70 and 73 meters long, and with them many bronze objects. The discovered statues and decorations confirmed that these ships were built specifically for Emperor Caligula.

Photo 7.

Their preservation amazed even archaeologists. It became clear how the ancient large ships were built. Many items from that time were found and restored: pumps for pumping out water that came in during the voyage, several bronze items (animal heads with mooring rings), a statue of Caligula’s sister, the head of a Gorgon jellyfish, a talismanic hand that was nailed to the hull of the ship, the head of the she-wolf Romulus. One of the most amazing discoveries was two unique rotating platforms discovered on a small ship. Under one of the platforms there were eight bronze balls moving in a chute. Another platform rested on eight conical wooden rollers, also moving in a trough. Both designs are reminiscent of rolling bearings, the prototype of which was invented in the 16th century by the great Leonardo da Vinci. The purpose of these platforms is still unknown; it is possible that they were used as rotating stands for statues.

And on one of the lead pipes of the small ship an inscription was found: “Property of Caius Caesar Augustus Germanicus” - the full name of Caligula. There is no doubt about the owner.

Among the finds were clay pipes that supported the floor and allowed it to be heated. This proves that large ships were equipped with sophisticated heating systems throughout the ship. During the excavations, a bronze tap was found. He controlled the flow of water into the reservoirs. From there it was supplied through lead pipes to various needs.

A lot of nails were also found, with the help of which wooden elements were fastened; they were treated with a solution, which protected them from corrosion.

Photo 8.

The ships were sunk under Emperor Nero or after his death, during civil wars.

Photo 9.

The huge structures were moved to a hangar and a museum was opened. Unfortunately, during the fighting in 1944, the museum was destroyed and both ships burned down. The surviving details and bronze decorations can be seen today in the Museo Nazionale Romano.

Photo 10.