Tusculum [key], city of ancient Latium. The ruins of this city are near modern Frascati, 15 mi (24 km) SE of Rome, Italy. According to legend, Tusculum was founded by Telegonus, son of Ulysses (see Circe), and it early became an important city. It was a favorite summer residence of Roman nobles; Pliny the Younger, Cicero, and the emperors Nero and Titus were among those who built villas there. It continued to be important until 1191, when it was razed by the Romans. Ruins include those of villas, an amphitheater, and a theater.
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