The Mausoleum of Saint Helena was built by Emperor Constantine between 326 and 330 AD, originally as his tomb, later destined for his mother Helena, who died in 328. The tomb is located within the imperial complex of Ad Duas Lauros, which also includes the catacombs of Saints Marcellinus and Peter.
The restoration highlighted the coexistence of several buildings and artifacts: the monumental mausoleum that extends both in circumference and height for more than 20 meters; the small farmhouse and the nearby 18th-century church; the catacombs. The visit is completed by a museum display of finds from the area, such as those from the cemetery of the “equites singulares” and from the underlying catacomb.
The Mausoleum also marks the starting point of the southern route of the Via Francigena, as the Via Casilina and Via Prenestina begin in this area. A place of rare charm and rich suggestions, which with redevelopment and restoration completes another piece in the renewal of the area.
