One of the rarest and most highly anticipated celestial events is coming up on Monday, 11 November 2019: the transit of the planet Mercury on the Sun. Visitors inside the PArCo will be able to observe this astronomical wonder which takes place just 13 times per century; the next will occur in November 2032.

The Parco archeologico del Colosseo and the Galileo Galilei amateur astronomers’ group (GrAG), from Tarquinia, have set up observation stations with solar telescopes at three points throughout the park— the Temple of Venus, the Domus Tiberiana terrace and the Clivus Palatinus — to watch the show. GrAG members will be on hand to guide visitors in their observation of the celestial phenomenon.

The passage of the planet Mercury across the Sun will begin at 13:35 and will be visible until 16:00, while the potential appearance of sun spots (if visible) should occur from around 10:00.

The event is free of charge for all visitors in possession of a PArCo entry ticket.