Subway construction workers uncover ancient dwelling in Rome

Construction workers have found the remains of an ancient dwelling while digging a tunnel for a new underground train line in Rome.

The remains were of a home from the second or third century AD, which was likely destroyed by a fire, the historic monuments protection authority said Monday.

It is the first time that a charred wooden roof frame has been found in Rome.

"The fire brought the life in this room to a standstill," said the head of the monuments authority, Francesco Prosperetti.

"That makes it possible for us to imagine what life was like at exactly this moment."

The remains included the skeleton of a dog, which was probably shut inside during the fire. A mosaic and pieces of furniture were also found.

During the construction of Rome's third subway line, workers have regularly run into archaeological finds, slowing the pace of the work.