With Dr. Eireann Marshall

The monstrously self-centred son of Vespasian created an imposing palace to match his ambitions. Dominating the Palatine to this day, the palace was said to have had extensively polished walls which allowed Domitian, wrapped in paranoia, to see who walked behind him. The emperor also had extensive gardens built, including one which looks like a circus, as well as a monumental ramp recently opened to the public. Killed by palace officials for his autocratic and overly obsessive behaviour, Domitian was, in many ways, a conscientious ruler who was desperate to live up to his famous father and brother. The palace he had built mirrors his characteristics, with its impressive architecture designed to express imperial prowess.