Embark on a journey through the magnificent legacy of the Roman Empire during this guided exploration of Italica, a significant archaeological site situated just outside Seville. This location is renowned as the birthplace of Trajan, the first Roman emperor hailing from Spain.
Tour Details
We will convene at the entrance to the Italica ruins in Santiponce, a quaint town a mere 10-minute drive from Seville. Here, we will enter the remarkable archaeological zone, discovering the rich history that lies within its ancient walls.
What makes Itálica so vital to the Iberian Peninsula? Who was Trajan, and how did his nephew, Hadrian, ascend to power? Together with a knowledgeable guide specializing in ancient history, we will traverse the many facets of this “little Rome,” including the majestic Amphitheatre of Itálica, once a battleground for fierce gladiatorial matches.
As we walk across the arena, which had a capacity of up to 25,000 spectators, you may recognize it from its appearance in scenes from Game of Thrones.
Our next stop will be the northern gate, where remnants of the ancient sewer system can be observed, followed by a stroll down the Decumanus Maximus, where the original cobblestones and engravings have weathered the years.
We will also discover some prominent Roman houses, including the House of the Exedra and the House of Neptune, notable for its preservation. Here, we can admire the baths and the original mosaics that once adorned private rooms, enriching our understanding of Roman myths and daily life.
Ascending to the city’s highest point, we will view the sculpture dedicated to Trajan. Following this, we’ll explore the House of Hylas, the House of the Rhodian Courtyard, and the House of the Birds, which are crucial for grasping the design of Roman residences and the significance of tabernae.
In the concluding portion of our tour, we’ll visit the House of the Planetarium, where you will have some time to take photographs or delve into the exhibition area. Finally, we will arrive at the viewpoint of the Roman theatre to enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas of Itálica.
After approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, this guided tour of the Roman ruins will culminate back at our original meeting point.
