Via Appia Antica, Rome
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Via Appia Antica - by Kevin Martin Jose on Unsplash
Description
The Via Appia (Appian Way) is one of the earliest and most famous Roman roads. It was commissioned by the Roman censor Appius Claudius Caecus between Rome and Capua (near Napoli) for the efficient movement of troops during the Second Samnite War (326-304 BC) and it was later extended all the way to Brindisi (in Puglia), thus providing quick access to the rest of the Mediterranean Bassin. The original pavement was upgraded to polished basalt stones called basoli around 189BC with a width of just over 4m to allow vehicles to cross. The road fell in disuse after the fall of the Roman Empire, and it is only at the end of the 18th century that a new road was built in parallel. Along the way are many funerary monuments and catacombs. Technically the road starts from the gate of the Aurelian Walls at Porta Appia (Porta San Sebastiano) but, practically, it starts at the Church of Domine Quo Vadis.
Access & Transport
Buses 118 and 228 stop at Appia Antica/Domine Quo Vadis and number 118 continues alongside the Via Appia. Metro station Garbatella (B, B1) is 2km to the west of the Church of Domine Quo Vadis.
Instructions & Recommendations
There are plenty of monuments and sites to visit along the way such as the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, San Sebastiano and Vigna Randanini, the Tomb of Priscilla, and the Circus of Maxentius.
Environmental & Social
Green activity that provides both a great outdoor environment and helps preserve the city's cultural and architectural heritage
Conclusion
The section of the Via Appia within the city of Rome should be approached as a leisurely walk / activity rather than as an intense and focused visit. After all, it wasn't designed as a specific monument but an axis of communication. We think it is a very unique way to enjoy a walk back in time and marvel at Roman civil engineering once again.
Key positive
Combining leisure and culture
Free and not crowded
Key negative
A little time consuming to get to by public transport
Suitability
No restrictions although wheelchair users may need some assistance on some sections
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
April 2023
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 35m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo