Ostia Antica

Opening Hours

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Oct 25 to Feb 28/29 - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Mar 1 to Mar 31 - 8:30 am - 5:15 pm
Apr 1 to Sep 30 - 8:30 am - 7 pm
Oct 1 to Oct 24 - 8:30 am - 6 pm

Visit Duration

⏰ Suggested Duration:45mins -2 hours ☀️ Best Time to Visit: Spring/ Summer Mornings 💜 Dont Miss: Baths of Neptune 🚇 Closest Metro Station: Ostia Antica Station

Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city located near the modern town of Ostia, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Rome, stands as one of Italy’s most captivating archaeological sites. Founded in the 4th century BCE, Ostia Antica originally served as a military colony intended to defend the coastline against pirate attacks. Over the centuries, it evolved into Rome’s primary harbor city, bustling with trade and commerce. Today, the remarkably well-preserved ruins offer a unique glimpse into the everyday lives of ancient Romans, making it an essential destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

One of the primary reasons to visit Ostia Antica is its impressive array of architectural marvels. Visitors can wander through ancient streets and explore various structures, including the forum, baths, temples, warehouses, and residential buildings. The site features beautifully preserved mosaics, frescoes, and statues, which vividly illustrate the artistic and cultural richness of the time. Notable highlights include the Baths of Neptune, with their striking mosaic floors, and the theatre, which could accommodate up to 4,000 spectators and still hosts performances today. These ancient buildings provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and witness the grandeur of Roman urban planning and architecture.

Another compelling reason to explore Ostia Antica is its relatively tranquil and uncrowded atmosphere compared to the more famous ruins of Pompeii or the Colosseum. The expansive site covers 50 hectacres, offering plenty of space to explore at a leisurely pace without the hustle and bustle typical of major tourist attractions. This peaceful environment makes it easier to appreciate the historical significance of the ruins and to imagine the daily life of Ostia’s ancient inhabitants. The site’s proximity to Rome also means that it can be easily visited as a day trip, providing a serene escape from the city’s more frenetic pace.

 

Finally, Ostia Antica offers educational opportunities that extend beyond traditional museum visits. The site frequently hosts guided tours, workshops, and interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. These activities help to bring the history of Ostia to life, offering deeper insights into Roman society, economy, and culture. Additionally, the nearby Ostia Antica Museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered during excavations, further enriching the visitor experience with tangible connections to the past. Whether you are a history buff, a student, or simply someone looking to enrich your travel experience, Ostia Antica provides a fascinating and educational journey into the heart of ancient Rome.

Ostia Antica Tickets

Ostria Tickets

How to get there

By bus: From Porta San Paolo (Piramide), San Paolo or Eur Magliana
By train: To Ostia Antica stop, cross the pedestrian bridge and follow the signs.


Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica
717 Viale dei Romagnoli, 00121, Rome