Rome has unveiled two long-awaited metro stations that immerse commuters in ancient history, a multi-billion-shilling project delayed for years by the very treasures it now displays. This grand opening in Italy offers a powerful lesson for Nairobi as our city navigates the delicate dance between building modern infrastructure and preserving our own unique heritage.

The new hubs on the driverless Metro C line, Colosseo-Fori Imperiali and Porta Metronia, are now operational after a grand opening on Tuesday. They were designed as "museum stations" to showcase the vast trove of archaeological finds unearthed during construction, a common reason for infrastructure delays in the ancient city.

When Digging for a Train Unearths an Empire

The discoveries are a direct window into the Roman Empire. At Porta Metronia, excavators found a vast military barracks from the second century AD, complete with a commander's house featuring stunning frescoes and mosaic floors. Simona Moretta, the scientific director of the excavation, described the military complex as an "exceptional find."

The Colosseo-Fori Imperiali station, next to the iconic Colosseum, revealed other historical layers. Key discoveries displayed behind protective glass include:

• The remains of a Republican-era townhouse.
• A thermal bath from the early imperial period.
• Dozens of artifacts like jugs, bowls, and hairpins recovered from 28 ancient wells.

A Blueprint for Nairobi's Future?

While Nairobi does not contend with Roman ruins, the city faces its own version of this challenge. Massive projects like the Nairobi Expressway and the planned redevelopment of the Nairobi Central Railway Station are transforming the capital, but they also raise critical questions about preserving our historical and environmental identity. Just this week, NEMA's approval for the Central Station upgrade came with strict conditions, mandating that any modifications to historic structures get a green light from the National Museums of Kenya.

Rome’s approach demonstrates that infrastructure can coexist with history, turning a construction challenge into a cultural asset. It proves that development doesn't have to erase the past; it can make it accessible. This principle is vital as Nairobi plans its future, from protecting green spaces to safeguarding sites like the African Heritage House, a gazetted national monument.

As Nairobi continues its rapid expansion, the question posed by Rome's achievement is clear: can we build for tomorrow without erasing the footprints of yesterday? The answer will define the soul of our city for generations to come.