SERAPEUM

The so-called Serapeum was a monumental summer cenatio with nymphaeum set at the southern end of the Canopus. The front of the structure is dominated by a half-dome under which was constructed a semi-circular stibadium (13) on which banqueters reclined in the open air while enjoying the view of the Canopus canal in front and the sound of cascading water from the nymphaeum behind. Inside, on axis with the stibadium, was a raised platform (20) used either for dining or as a support for sculpture.