Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica

An Almost Forgotten Roman Gem

It’s a pity if one misses the opportunity to visit Ostia Antica. It’s very different from the Roman Forum, Palatine and the other ancient sites in central Rome. Here among the old ruins of the port of imperial Rome one can sense the way people lived and how they worked and traded the commodities that kept Rome alive.

The site requires at least a whole afternoon, about 4 to 6 hours. Best piece of advice is to wear good comfortable walking or hiking shoes as a lot of the terrain is hard and rough.

Getting there is easy. From central Rome go by Metro to Piramide station and then change to the Roma-Lido train at Porta San Paolo station. From the Metro one goes up the escalators to the platforms. At Ostia Antica exit the station and head straight out and over a pedestrian bridge and walk until you see the Sbarco Di Enea restaurant. Cross the road and continue to follow the Mediterranean pine covered road (Viale degli Scavi), which corners slightly to the left, until you come to the ticket office on your right.

Entry tickets without the map and audio guide are currently Euro 8. There are reduced fares and even free entry if you qualify (students, journalists, etc.,).

The first Sunday of every month is also free. The archaeological site is closed on Mondays, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and May 1st.

For more information about the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica visit the Parco Archeologico di Ostia Antica website.

All Photos © Carlo Irlitti