Il Mausoleum of Saint Helena was built by Emperor Constantine between 326 and 330 AD, originally as his tomb, and later intended for his mother Helena, who died in 328. The tomb is located in the imperial complex of Ad Duas Lauros, which also includes the catacombs of Saints Marcellinus and Peter.
The restoration highlighted the coexistence of various buildings and evidence: the monumental mausoleum that extends both in circumference and in height for over 20 meters; the small farmhouse and the nearby 18th-century church; the catacombs. The visit is completed by the museum display of artifacts 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 Via Francigena route, as the Via Casilina and Via Prenestina depart from the area. A place of rare charm and rich suggestions, which with redevelopment and restoration completes another piece for the renewal of the area.
