When most people visit a McDonald’s, they usually focus on what to order rather than what lies beneath their feet. However, one exceptional McDonald’s branch in Frattocchie, a small town around 12 miles south of Rome, offers diners a unique glimpse into history. This location has become an unlikely tourist attraction after social media users shared footage highlighting the restaurant’s special feature: glass floor panels that showcase an archaeological site underneath.
Travel content creator Jordan Egbert recently visited the site and described his experience: “At first glance, it looks like a normal McDonald’s. But then, you come over here and see this glass in the floor. A little bit unusual, but you look down and see what’s underneath.”
The remarkable discovery beneath the restaurant dates back to construction work that began in 2014. Workers uncovered what is believed to be a branch of the Appian Way, one of ancient Rome’s oldest and most significant roads. Along with the road, two human skeletons estimated to be around 2,000 years old were also found.
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Faced with the choice to either halt building or honour the archaeological findings, an agreement was reached to integrate the ruins within the McDonald’s design. According to Food Republic, McDonald’s invested $315,000 additional funds to incorporate the site, installing glass floor panels that preserve visibility of the ancient road and remains for all visitors.
Jordan further noted, “They found bodies here, not just one but two, and decided to preserve them. It’s incredible to be eating your meal right above such history.”
These glass panels are situated along the counter where customers place their orders, making it unavoidable to observe the remarkable site. While reports from the Mirror mention a skeleton visible beneath the floor, some discussion remains as to whether the skeletons displayed are the original remains or high-quality replicas intended to protect the authentic findings.
Regardless, this unusual feature has transformed the Frattocchie McDonald’s into more than just a fast-food restaurant; it has become a destination where visitors come specifically to witness the blend of historical preservation and modern dining. Online reactions to Jordan’s footage have been largely positive. One user commented, “Ridiculously cool.” Another challenged the “creepy” description, stating, “I wouldn’t call it ‘creepy’. Fascinating is more like it.” A further admirer wrote, “Not to be controversial, but I think it’s very historic and cool.”
McDonald’s has been contacted for comment regarding this unique location.