PIECING TOGETHER THE PAST

Budding historians should not miss the chance to discover one of Italy’s most captivating archaeological sites on this fun scavenger hunt in Ostia Antica.

About 25 kilometres west of Rome lies the Caput Mundi’s former seaport, the second best-preserved ancient Roman city in Italy. Ostia’s ruins might not be as well-known as the excavations in Pompeii – probably because of the latter’s tragic fate – but they are, nevertheless, simply amazing and can still speak volumes about how life was lived in Roman times. Following the collapse of the empire, Ostia was gradually abandoned and remained concealed under layers of sand for centuries. The site remained mostly untouched until the early 1900s and the excellent state of conservation of its buildings and mosaics allows visitors to gain insight into the daily bustle of this once busy harbour.

Ostia derives its name from the Latin word os or ostium, meaning mouth, which refers to the city’s location at the mouth of the River Tiber. Due to silting, today it is situated three kilometers further inland, within a peaceful, green setting that is sure to please visitors wishing to take a break from the rush of the city centre.

According to tradition Ostia was founded as a colony by Ancus Marcius, Rome’s fourth king, in the late 7th century BC, although some historians and archaeologists claim the very earliest settlement can be dated to the beginning of the 4th century BC. Ostia reached the peak of its splendour during the 2nd century AD when it served as Rome’s main port for goods, including grain, olive oil and wine, transported to and from far-flung corners of the empire. Trade brought opulence and prosperity to the city as testified by the stunning remains you will see.

Your guide will lead you through the streets of this remarkable ancient settlement and explain how findings that emerged from the rubble have been pieced together to give us an accurate picture of this ancient port town. We know multilevel homes once stood on this very spot, although they are no longer intact. As the city flourished the population grew to 50,000 inhabitants, leading to an increased demand for lodging. Yesteryear’s citizens resolved issues of space by building taller structures. Only the ground floors remain today but isn’t it impressive to think that the forerunners of modern skyscrapers were built 1,800 years ago? Highlights also include the theatre, the forum, temples, thermal baths and even age-old public latrines! Can you believe that yesterday’s toilets have become an exciting treasure trove for archaeologists today?

Young time-travellers will retrace the footsteps of ancient sailors, theatre-goers, market traders and worshippers and put their knowledge to the test as they engage in an exciting archaeological expedition. Under the guidance of their friendly Cicero, they will solve quizzes, follow clues, examine interesting findings and discover the function and purpose of the ancient remains. By giving hints, providing explanations tailored to each child’s age and interests and pointing out noteworthy features, your guide will make sure no fascinating detail eludes you on this gripping trail. Thanks to a well-planned mix of entertainment and history, this activity is sure to be memorable for both adults and young visitors, allowing every participant – no matter how old – to gain a pleasurable and informative overview of ancient Roman society and culture.