EJ · Ostia Antica Tour

Ostia Antica (Ancient Ostia) is located at the mouth of the Tiber and it takes its name from the Latin work “ostium” meaning mouth. Ostia was founded in the IV century BC as the first Roman colony on the Tyrrhenian Sea. From that time on, Ostia’s development has reflected the one of Rome: a military port during the period of expansion, a commercial port once Rome had established an organized system of trade. Ostia had over 50.000 inhabitants. Ostia began to decline together with Rome in the 4th century. Slowly the harbor silted up and Ostia was soon covered by alluvium deposited by the Tiber. It was 1909 before Ostia was discovered and regular excavations began. Visitors will be able to discover one of the most important archaeological areas, vast and best preserved in the world. The excavations of Ostia Antica brought to light walls and monumental structures, including mosaics and frescoes, well preserved houses, shops, storehouses, apartment-flats, public bathrooms, theatres, temples, the synagogue and offices of the first foreign and shipping companies. A fascinating trip, that takes one back to the everyday life and activities of a busy imperial commercial center.