Ciao travelers!
Today’s post is a different take on the traditional Museum Monday… as it’s all about an outdoor museum!
Often times when arriving into Rome in the early morning hours, your hotel rooms will not have been serviced rendering you unable to check in until a later time. With that being the case, EA Tours works diligently with its group leaders to plan a fun-filled educational excursion to pass the time.
This is where Ostia Antica comes in. While it may be one of Italy’s lesser known ancient sites it’s nothing short of remarkable!
Situated just twenty miles from the capital of Italy, Ostia Antica are the remains of an ancient Roman city which has been beautifully preserved. The city was founded around 620 B.C. In 400 B.C. it became a naval base, and by 150 A.D. it was the port city of Rome due to its location at the mouth of the Tiber River.
It’s great to step back in time and imagine what life would’ve been like. You can guarantee that it was very lively though! With a thriving commercial center of 60,000 citizens, Ostia Antica was an important stop for the trading of goods. As I mentioned, it was a crucial military outpost for the defending of Rome. Sadly, with the fall of Rome the port was abandoned.
As you and your students walk among the impressive and numerous ruins, you’ll see the docks, storehouses for various food staples, houses, the baths, shopping arcades, and an amphitheater all offering a glimpse into the Roman lifestyle. Something that I found to be very fascinating from when I visited is that from the Middle Ages to the 19th century the site moved two miles inland from the sea due to silting.
I encourage students and teachers to also visit the onsite museum. It’s like opening your own personal treasure chest as you admire the numerous works of art. The museum also presents a wealth of information so be sure to have a look around.
I leave you with these final words and pictures from my visit.
Ostia Antica is a wonderful place for student groups to explore a part of history that was once vital to the Roman Empire on their educational tour. The ancient buildings, frescoes, and mosaics are excellently preserved! It also helps that few people know of or visit this ancient site making it virtually your own historic playground!
I only ask you what are you waiting for?
Until next time,
Kate.