Aquinum: The Lost Roman City

Imagine a Roman town, bustling with life, its streets paved with stone, its buildings adorned with intricate mosaics. Now imagine that this town was swallowed by time, its existence forgotten for centuries. This is the story of Aquinum, a Roman city that lay hidden beneath the earth until recent excavations brought it back to light.

Located in the heart of Italy, halfway between Rome and Capua, Aquinum was a thriving center of commerce and culture during the Roman Empire. Its strategic location made it a vital link between the north and south of Italy, and its fertile land produced abundant crops.

Rediscovering a Lost World

For centuries, Aquinum remained buried beneath the earth, its secrets hidden from the world. But in 2009, a team of archaeologists began excavating the site, revealing a treasure trove of Roman history. The excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including:

• Extensive Baths: The Roman baths were a central part of social life, and the baths at Aquinum were no exception. The excavations have revealed a complex of baths with pools, saunas, and changing rooms.
• Well-Preserved Roads: The Roman roads were marvels of engineering, and the roads at Aquinum are a testament to their durability. The excavations have uncovered sections of the road that are still in excellent condition.
• A Magnificent Temple: Aquinum was home to a temple dedicated to the Roman gods, and the excavations have uncovered its foundations and some of its decorative elements.
• A Grand Theater: The Romans were known for their love of entertainment, and Aquinum had a grand theater that could seat thousands of spectators. The excavations have revealed the stage, the seating area, and the surrounding porticoes.

A Journey Through Time

Today, the site of Aquinum is open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of a Roman town. As you wander through the ruins, you can imagine the sounds of the marketplace, the shouts of gladiators in the arena, and the laughter of children playing in the streets.

The excavations at Aquinum are still ongoing, and archaeologists are constantly making new discoveries. Each new find adds another piece to the puzzle of this lost Roman city, bringing us closer to understanding the lives of the people who lived there centuries ago.

Visiting Aquinum

If you are interested in Roman history, a visit to Aquinum is a must. The site is located near the town of Aquino, in the province of Frosinone, Italy. It is easily accessible by car or train.

The site is open to the public daily, and there is a small entrance fee. Guided tours are available upon request.

Conclusion

Aquinum is a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. This lost city is a testament to the ingenuity, artistry, and culture of the Romans, and its discovery is a gift to our understanding of the past.

As the excavations continue, we can expect to learn even more about this fascinating site. Aquinum is a window into the world of the Romans, a world that is both familiar and exotic, and a world that continues to captivate and inspire us today.