Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker

The Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker is an impressive and peculiar ancient tomb in Rome dating back to around 30BC. Located just outside today’s Porta Maggiore in Rome, the tomb is even more significant because it was built by a freedman, a former slave.

History of Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker

The tomb was built by a former slave turned wealthy freeman named Marcus Vergilius Eurysaces, who made his fortune as a grand baker and contractor.

Unique in shape and design, it is believed that the Tomb of Eurysaces was constructed to fit this unique plot of land and also to highlight the tools of the baking trade, such as grain measures and dough-kneading machines.

It was built at the junction of the Via Labicana and the Via Praenestina, meaning a host of visitors and locals would have passed it every day.

The frieze at the top of the tomb depicts various elements of the bread-making process and is quite unique – certainly a world away from depictions of great conquests and brutal battles which can often be found on other Roman remains.

The tomb was later enclosed by the Aurelian Wall – and stands alongside the Porta Maggiore – but has now been excavated.

Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker Today

Today, the tomb stands as a reminder that alongside the dramatic and formative history and historical figures that we associate with Ancient Rome, there was also a large and thriving mercantile class at the heart of society.

The tomb is located in an extremely prominent position, just a few feet outside today’s Porta Maggiore, meaning that it is worth viewing alongside other historical monuments in the area. The relief for the tomb is now located in the Capitoline Museums.

Getting to Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker

From the centre of Rome, the tomb is reachable in 30 minutes via Via Giovanni Giolitti. There is also a regular bus service which stops off at Casilina/P.Le Labicano, after which it is a 2 minute walk to the tomb.