The network of foundations of Trajan’s Warehouses is presented as a solid, uniform platform, raised by more than one metre above the ancient sea level. Extremely broad and deep, the foundations – first built in concrete in wooden formwork up to the floor level, then raised with a facing in tuff opus reticulatum – present the construction characteristics typical of Claudian Age work sites. The solidity of this network of foundations explains why this monument has always conserved its original layout through the centuries.
Foundations of the Portico of Claudius in opus reticulatum
(École française de Rome)
Amphorae placed in the foundation for water drainage
(École française de Rome)
Continuous foundations in opus reticulatum
(École française de Rome)
Foundations of the Portico of Claudius in opus reticulatum
(photo: École française de Rome)
Foundations in opus reticulatum
(photo: École française de Rome)
Amphorae placed in the foundation for water drainage
(École française de Rome)