Appian Way Rome
Appian Way was one of the earliest and most important Roman roads. Appius Claudius Caecus built it in 312 B.C. A lot of historical events happened on Appian Way. The most famous might be its role in the slave revolt led by Spartacus.
This attraction is a little bit out of the way. It is outside the city, however it has terrific views of nature and the city in the distance.
The ride on Appian Way was fabulous and sometimes surreal. It was amazing seeing this ancient road along with the different ruins and catacombs still along Appian Way. I was excited to think I was riding on a road that has been in use and around for so long.
I went on a Sunday and rented a bike for the day. You can get them at a bike shop near Domine Quo Vadis Church. The bike company was terrific and provided maps and suggestions as to where to stop. You can also take the option of the Hop on – Hop off bus called Archeobus which takes you out this far.
I began my ride close to the Quo Vadis Church. At the Church is a marble slab that supposedly has the footprints of Christ. That was a big and exciting surprise to me. After the Church I headed south. This will take you past the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metello, Villa of Maxentius, Catacombs of St. Callisto. After that you pass various tombs and markers of ancient Romans. I went all the way out past the Villa of Quintilli to Aqueduct Park. Making it to the Aqueduct at the end is rewarding. They are beautiful and stretch across the land in front of you, behind vineyards and orchards.
Another highlight on Appian Way was Capo di Bove, a bath that is being restored. There are some lovely gardens with statues. The small museum has a recent history of the Appian Way.
It was a little long, but well worth it. I didn’t find it to be a particularly hard ride, and there was a water fountain along the way to refill bottles. I suggest visiting Appian Way on Sunday when the road is closed to cars (except to those who live on the road).
The ancient Appian Way can be incredibly bumpy so stick to the sides. Going along the original Roman cobblestones is a memory not to be missed. The photo opportunities are numerous so take them so you can remember this beautiful ride.
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