Tour of Ostia Antica: Walk the Streets of an Ancient Roman City

Uncover the secrets of ancient Rome with an unforgettable journey to Ostia Antica, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Italy! Once a bustling port city, Ostia flourished as a vital gateway to Rome, serving as a hub for commerce, culture, and daily Roman life. Equally as captivating as Pompeii, this fascinating site offers a glimpse into the past through remarkably preserved streets, buildings, and mosaics that tell the stories of a thriving Roman community.

A Walk Through History

Your adventure begins as you meet your expert guide at the entrance to Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica, ready to embark on a 3-hour immersive tour through the remnants of a once-great civilization. Founded in the 4th century BC and abandoned around AD 900, Ostia was home to over 100,000 people, leaving behind a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored.

• Stroll along the Decumanus Maximus, the city’s main thoroughfare, lined with ancient houses, shops, and taverns.
• Marvel at the Baths of Neptune, adorned with exquisite mosaics depicting the sea god and his mythical chariot.
• Step inside the Taberna of Fortunatus, a Roman tavern where locals once gathered to eat and drink.
• Admire the impressive Roman theater, which once hosted performances for thousands of spectators.
• Visit the Thermopolium of Diana, a remarkably well-preserved ancient snack bar where Romans once enjoyed quick meals.

A Diverse and Lively Community

Unlike many ancient ruins, Ostia provides an unparalleled look at the daily lives of ordinary Romans. As an essential commercial port, the city was home to people from all walks of life, making it a melting pot of cultures and beliefs.

• Discover a fascinating mix of religious structures, including a pagan temple, a Christian church, a Mithraeum (a temple dedicated to the Persian god Mithras), and one of the oldest synagogues in Europe.
• Explore the remains of apartment buildings (insulae) that housed merchants, sailors, and craftsmen.
• See well-preserved latrines, bakeries, and warehouses, which offer an astonishingly detailed insight into Roman daily life.

An Accessible Alternative to Pompeii

For those based in Rome, Ostia Antica provides a perfect alternative to Pompeii, offering an equally immersive experience with fewer crowds and easier accessibility. With its remarkably well-preserved frescoes, mosaics, and buildings, Ostia offers an authentic window into a thriving Roman city as it once was.

A Journey You Won’t Forget

From its grand theaters to its humble homes, Ostia Antica captures the essence of ancient Rome like no other site. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an archaeology lover, or simply an explorer eager to walk through time, this tour will leave you with a profound appreciation for the ingenuity and vibrancy of Roman civilization.

Step into the past and uncover the hidden stories of one of Rome’s greatest treasures!