- Tourist Information
- Map
- What is Ostia Antica and what is its history?
- What are the main attractions in Ostia Antica?
- Are there legends associated with Ostia Antica?
- Legend of the Foundation
- The Legend of the Ghosts of Ostia
- The Legend of Hercules and Cacus
- The legend of Asclepius
- The legend of the Virgin of Ostia
Tourist Information
| Year | 620 BC |
| Type | Ancient City / Ancient Port |
| Getting there | Ostia Antica is very close to Rome. To get there by public transport, take the metro (line B) and get off at Piramide. Here, take the train from Roma Lido to Ostia Antica. It is a 10-minute walk away. The train to Ostia costs €1.50 (the same as any other one-way journey). |
| Visiting Hours / Tickets | https://www.ostiaantica.beniculturali.it/en/opening-hours-tickets/ You can buy tickets at the entrance to the site. Wear a sun hat, comfortable shoes, and layered clothing. Ostia can be cold and foggy in the morning and hot in the afternoon. |
| Website | https://www.ostiaantica.beniculturali.it/ |
| Location | 00119 Ostia Antica RM, Italy, Europe |
Map
What is Ostia Antica and what is its history?
Ostia Antica is a Roman archaeological site that was an ancient port located at the mouth of the Tiber River, near Rome. It was founded in the 4th century BC and served as the main port for the supply and defense of Rome. As Rome grew in power and importance, Ostia Antica became a vital commercial and economic center.
Ostia was a thriving and diverse port city that played a crucial role in feeding Rome’s growing population. Its bustling docks housed a host of hardworking people, from sailors and shipowners to warehouse managers and customs officers. Together, these dedicated men ensured that vital grains from Egypt and Sicily were transported and stored safely in Ostia before being made into nutritious bread and sent down the Tiber to the bustling metropolis of Rome.
According to ancient tradition, Ostia was founded by Ancus Marcius, the fourth king of Rome, who is believed to have ruled in the late 7th century BC. The year of establishment is stated as 620 BC. However, no archaeological remains have been discovered in or near the city of Ostia belonging to this period. It is assumed that if it existed it is some small settlement, rather a small house, and not a village. The existence of the settlement was mentioned twice by Livy in his 5th-century writings. Livy cited the Tiber floods of 414 and 363 BC in his works (AUC 4.49.2-3 and 7.3.2).
The oldest settlement is a salt mining location dating back to 1400 BC in an area east of Ostia, where salt deposits were present. Salt mining is believed to have taken place during the Middle Bronze Age and later (1400-1000 BC). During the early Iron Age (1000-700 BC), there may have been a small village in close proximity to the salt deposits.
What are the main attractions in Ostia Antica?
The main attractions include the Roman Forum, the Theatre, the Baths of Neptune, the Baths of Apollonia, the House of Diana, and the well-preserved houses and streets of the old town.
The oldest settlement that has been found is the so-called Castrum. The castrum was a rectangular military fortress (194 x 125.7 meters), with walls of bush blocks. Historical events indicate that the Castrul would have been built between 396 and 267 BC. The oldest ceramic object from Castrum was dated between 380-340 BC.
The port city had a very cosmopolitan population, a Jewish synagogue, a Christian basilica, and 18 temples dedicated to the Persian god Mithra.
The main street of Ostia, called Decumanus Maximus, cut through the entire city. Along this street, you can see many buildings in various states that once existed here. There are also taverns, bakeries, inns, shops, public baths, and a large reconstructed theater which is still in use during the summer.
Are there restaurants or souvenir shops near the archaeological site?
Yes, there is a restaurant on site. There are also restaurants in the area around the site. There are also souvenir shops both inside and outside.
Are there legends associated with Ostia Antica?
Legend of the Foundation
One of the most famous legends related to the founding of Ancient Ostia suggests that the city was founded by King Anco Marcio, one of the first kings of Rome. He would have established Ostia Antica to serve as a vital port for Rome and to ensure the supply of goods and resources necessary for the growth of the city.
The Legend of the Ghosts of Ostia
Ostia Antica is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the ancient Romans. Legend has it that late at night, shouts and guitar sounds can be heard, suggesting the presence of spirits from the past still living in the ruins.
The Legend of Hercules and Cacus
According to an ancient legend, Ostia Antica is said to be the place where the mythical hero Hercules fought against Cacus, a monster who stole Hercules’ cattle and hid them in nearby caves. This event would have led to the establishment of an altar dedicated to Hercules in Ostia Antica.
The legend of Asclepius
Ostia Antica had a temple dedicated to the Greek god of medicine, Asclepius. Legend has it that Asclepius appeared in the dreams of a local man and cured his ailments, which is why the people built a temple in his honor.
The legend of the Virgin of Ostia
Another legend refers to an image of the Virgin Mary, known as the “Virgin of Ostia”. This image is said to have been brought to Ostia Antica and kept in the church of Santa Aurea. Legend states that this miraculous image would have protected the city from various dangers over the centuries.
