The long-awaited reveal of the AS Roma stadium’s final design has been put on hold, leaving fans wondering what’s next for their team’s new home. An “invisible forest” and unforeseen archaeological discoveries have thrown a wrench into the ambitious project.
The stadium’s construction is practically ready, with archaeological studies underway to determine the best placement. The president of Rome’s district IV, Massimiliano Umberti, assures everyone that the project is moving forward. This feels like a positive update, reassuring fans that the stadium is still on track.
However, archaeological digs in April 2024 uncovered some unexpected surprises. The discovery of significant historical relics could force AS Roma and the designers to completely rethink the stadium’s location. This news is a little concerning, as it introduces the possibility of delaying the project further.
To expedite the process, the Board of Curators split the archaeological work into two phases. However, the excavation efforts came to a standstill after activists from the “Yes to the park, no to the stadium” committee intervened. This is where the drama begins, as activists enter the scene with their own concerns.
The activists claim that a laurel forest exists in the Pietralata district, an area not recognized in the Regional Territorial Landscape Plan. They believe the forest is under threat and demand a halt to all activities that could damage it. The activists are passionate about preserving the environment, but their claims are being met with skepticism.
The committee’s claims triggered an official investigation, with the City Council releasing documents showing over 800 trees in the area. The municipality of Rome estimates that at least 80 trees will need to be removed to build the stadium. This is a serious conflict that could have significant consequences for the project.
Forestry experts have been called in to assess the situation, but the activists are calling for a second inspection. The uncertainty surrounding the forest dispute has pushed back the start date of construction, although the exact timeline is unknown. This delay is a major setback for AS Roma’s hopes of opening the stadium in 2027.
Adding to the challenges, two ancient Roman structures were found on the site, requiring further investigation. One is a 30-meter-long reservoir, while the other is a Roman-era water distributor. These discoveries highlight the rich history of the area and could impact the stadium’s design.
The Board of Curators has requested a redesign of the project to avoid interfering with the newly discovered archaeological remains. The second phase of the archaeological survey will focus on the southern part of the stadium, and the fate of the 62,000-seat arena will largely depend on its findings. The project is facing multiple obstacles, and the future of the stadium is uncertain.
While the “invisible forest” and ancient structures present significant challenges, the AS Roma team and the designers are determined to overcome them. The final design of the stadium may differ from the original plans, but the hope remains to create a new home for the Giallorossi that pays respect to the area’s rich history and environment. It’s an ongoing battle, but the dream of a new stadium still lives on, with fans hoping for a brighter future for AS Roma.
