The Appian Way, located in its namesake park, offers a one-of-a-kind historical, archaeological, and architectural experience. Walking or biking along this ancient road, which dates back over 2,300 years, is an unforgettable journey everyone should experience at least once.
The Origins and Purpose of the Appian Way
Built in 312 BC by Appio Claudio Cieco, the Appian Way was initially meant to quickly connect Rome to Capua during the Second Samnite War. Later, it was extended to Brindisi, creating a direct link to Greece, the East, and Egypt, which was used for military, travel, and trade purposes. Known as the Regina Viarum, “Queen of Roads,” it was the most famous route in the Roman era.
Architectural Features and Monuments
Today, the first few kilometers of the Appian Way are no longer visible, but starting near the Domine, quo vadis? Church on Via Ardeatina, the road stretches straight with hundreds of ancient monuments lining both sides. In 189 BC, the original pavement was replaced with large, smooth basalt stones, known as basalt, which were incredibly durable and can still be seen today.
The road was about 4.10 meters wide, allowing traffic to move in both directions. Wide sidewalks were lined with funerary monuments, and the Appian Way was surrounded by lush countryside where small villages once stood. Over time, these villages were replaced by grand villas owned by wealthy Romans who sought a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Appian Way also became a key route for pilgrims coming to Rome to visit the Christian sanctuaries near the catacombs, just outside the city walls.
Decline and Medieval Transformation
The Appian Way declined between the 4th and 6th centuries due to wars, invasions, and looting. Additionally, the bodies of martyrs were relocated inside the city. Small, self-sufficient villages emerged when the Church took control of the surrounding Roman countryside. These settlements included farmhouses, towers, churches, lodgings, stables, mills, and vegetable gardens, giving the road a more medieval character.

Fortifications and Abandonment
Ancient Roman tombs were repurposed as guard posts to oversee the area. Notable examples include the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella and the Nymphaeum of the Villa dei Quintili, which the modified into fortified structures. Between 1302 and 1303, the Caetani also controlled Capo di Bove, where they built a large fortress, the Castrum Caetani. Travelers and goods passing through the Appian Way were heavily taxed, leading to the road’s further abandonment in favor of alternative routes.
The reuse of ancient materials for new constructions and the interest scholars and collectors had in ancient artifacts led to further looting and decay of the Appian Way. For instance, in 1589, the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella was almost demolished to provide materials for The Villa d’Este in Tivoli, but this was fortunately prevented.
The Appian Way and the Grand Tour
From the 17th to the 19th century, the Grand Tour became popular. Young European aristocrats took This cultural trip to Italy to refine their education and become true gentlemen. Rome was a must-visit destination, where travelers could explore ancient ruins and collect artwork and unique souvenirs. Notable visitors included the German writer Johann Wolfgang Goethe and English Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, who were close friends.

Restoration and Preservation Efforts
In 1851, Pope Pius IX initiated a major restoration project for the Appian Way, allowing visitors to stroll along and admire its monuments and transforming it into an unparalleled open-air museum.
UNESCO World Heritage Recognition
In 2024, during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, the “Via Appia. Regina viarum” was officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition highlights the road’s innovative engineering and construction, a remarkable example of ancient architecture and a critical period in human history. The first 12 miles, lined with many iconic monuments, remain among the most artistically celebrated parts of the Appian Way throughout history.
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