About this experience
Where in Rome can you find the most ancient wonders? Not on the central streets or in the neighborhoods around the Colosseum. I will show you Ostia - an ancient city just 20 minutes from the capital. Builders, porters, sailors, clerks lived here, all in need of apartments or hotels, temples and theaters, many of which have been well preserved. My stories will help you immerse yourself in ancient life and learn what the ancient Romans ate, how they worked, and relaxed.
What to expect
Around 450 years BC, Ostia was a military and port city of Great Rome. Over time, it turned into a military naval base and possibly the most important trading center of the Roman Empire. But when navigation on the Tiber became impossible, Ostia was abandoned, and after the destruction of aqueducts, it was completely flooded...
In the early 20th century, interest in this area increased, and the swamps began to be drained. After archaeological excavations, Ostia became an open-air museum with many artifacts from ancient times. We will see:
- Julius Caesar's Castle
- Porta Romana Necropolis and Columbarium
- Marble and tuff sarcophagi
- Gates built by Sulla in 80 BC
- Inns, residential and warehouse buildings
- Neptune's Baths - one of the largest bath complexes in Ostia
- The main city square (Forum)
- The House of Cupid and Psyche
Ostia cannot be called a "lifeless" museum: signs of everyday life are everywhere. Here we will feel like ancient Romans! In addition to visiting temples, baths, and majestic squares, we will be able to:
- explore the ruins of poor houses
- get acquainted with the typical street layout
- peek into the shops
- discuss what fast food was popular among the residents
Organizational details
- The tour starts from Laurentina metro station: I will pick you up from there in a comfortable car (compact sedan) and bring you back after the tour
- Additional expenses: €19 entrance ticket at the ticket office (it costs €18 on the official website). Purchased for each tour participant, as well as for the guide.
