Book IX, 808: On the House of Maximinus

Maximinus built me in the newly constructed Rome, fixing my secure foundations actually on the beach. Infinite beauty extends itself around me. To right, left, and behind me lies the city, but facing me I see all the beauties of the Bithynian coast. At the foot of my most strong foundations the salt current rolls to the lovely sea, just touching the land in front of me enough to wet its edge. Often a man leaning out from me slightly has greatly rejoiced his heart, seeing in all directions different things : trees, houses, ships, sea, city, sky, and earth.