Grotte di Catullo, Sirmione

Explore one of the region’s main landmarks, Grotte di Catullo, the most striking example of a private Roman edifice discovered in this part of the country. The site, built on a rectangular plan over previously abandoned structures, is a ruin of a three-story villa erected around the year 150 CE. Contrary to its name, this is neither a grotto, nor is it likely to have ever belonged to the famed poet Catullus. The owners were a local wealthy family that often hosted the distinguished poet, which is probably where the name comes from. Near the entrance into the site you can visit a small museum, which houses numerous items found in the villa, including fragments of frescoes, mosaic tiles, ceramics, and coins.  To visit Grotte di Catullo on your holiday in Sirmione, and find out what else Sirmione has to offer, use our Sirmione.