Ostia Antica

"Archaeological remains suggest Ostia Antica dates back to IV century BC and was born as a castrum (military fortification) to control the mouth of the river Tiber and therefore access to Rome via water. Over the course of the centuries Ostia developed into a large and important city: its original perimeter of walls was replaced by a bigger one in the first century and 3 entrances to the city remain: Porta Romana, Porta Marina and Porta Laurentina. Ostia grew in importance for a centuries and reached its peak in the I and II century AD. After this time, the city went through a slow decline and it looks like it was abandoned between the IX and X century: at this time, the population left the ancient city and moved farther East in the medieval ‘borgo’ of Gregoriopoli. -TIP 1: The best way to visit Ostia Antica is to come equipped with a good pair of walking shoes and get hold of the audio guide and the (free) map available at the ticket office. Taking the audio guide is worth it as in Ostia you do not have info panels explaining what the ruins you are looking at used to be. -TIP 2: Every first Sunday of the month free entrance for Archaeological area -Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday, check the site for the timetable. -Tickets: Adults € 18 Can be purchased at the ticket office from Tuesday to Sunday. Only electronic payment is allowed, no cash payment. If you prefer, you can buy your ticket online. "

"All archeological fans need to visit Ostia Antica — Ancient Rome’s seaport at the mouth of the Tiber River founded by the fourth king of Rome – Anco Marcio. The best part? You won’t find the tourist crowds you get in other archeological sites like Pompeii! Historically, Ostia Antica was a key port for the Romans, where innumerable goods were exchanged. Today, it is known as Rome’s “ghost town” for its wonderfully preserved ruins of streets, villas and frescoes. Check out the Terme di Nettuno, baths that date back to the 2nd century boasting stunning mosaic floors to be completely swept off your feet! To reach Ostia Antica take the Ostia Lido train from San Paolo Station and get off at Ostia Antica. For lunch, take the metromare to Lido di Ostia (or drive for 10 minutes) and go to the restaurant La Vecchia Pineta. "

"Ostia Antica are a compilation of ancient ruins, about half an hour by train from central Rome. It was once an ancient Roman city and the port of ancient Rome located at the mouth of the Tiber River. It is near modern Ostia, 25 kilometres southwest of Rome. Now it sits 3km from the sea, due to water pollution and the invasion of sand. "