This may have contributed to Hadrian's choice of the property; although born in Rome, his parents came from Spain and he may have been familiar with the area during his early life. There may also have been a connection through his wife Vibia Sabina (83–136/137), who was the niece of the Emperor Trajan. Sabina's family held large landholdings and it is speculated the Tibur property may have been one of them.