this publication begins with a reflection on the theater, artfully discussing the theatrical curtain and its significance in creating anticipation for the performance to come. The author, Henri Lavedan, reminisces about his childhood experiences with theater, detailing the emotional weight carried by the curtain as it symbolizes the boundary between reality and performance. Following this rich introduction, the text transitions into archaeological reporting on the restoration of Horace’s villa, showcasing ongoing excavations and discussing the insights gleaned from the ruins. The opening ultimately offers readers a blend of nostalgic sentiment and contemporary cultural discourse, engaging them in the artistic and historical narratives of the time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)