Saturday 29th September 2018
Civitaveccia is the gateway to The Eternal City of Rome. Whilst it would take many lifetimes to really know Rome, there is an opportunity to see many of the city’s most famous sites. Marvel at the incredible architecture and epic monuments or simply soak up the atmosphere of this remarkable city. Alternatively, escape the hustle and bustle and venture into the beautiful Italian countryside.
No alarm this morning, much more civilised.
Already docked in Civitaveccia, clear skies and a gentle breeze. Going to be a hot one today.
Time for a proper breakfast today and to sit out on deck in the sun and enjoy a morning coffee. All with plenty of time to join our afternoon excursion, but it’s not to Rome!
Today we're off to Ostia Antica. The old port of Rome founded in about 500 BC. It’s now a major archeological site. The city is located at the mouth of the River Tiber, where the river meets the sea, it’s also at the end of the Apian Way which runs up to Rome. The road cleverly shaded with “Umbrella Pines” and even now the basalt cobbles are showing the signs of the ruts caused by the passage of thousands of chariot wheels.
Part of the Apian Way
Wonderful ruins, even though it seems to have had rather too much reconstruction, maybe it’s just to keep it from any further damage from the weather and tourists.
There are the extensive remains/foundations of houses, shops, storage buildings, a very fine theatre and still some remains of temples.
Remains of Roman Temple
Roman Theatre
Numerous mosaics, all black and white, in many of the rooms, in excellent condition.
Everything needed for a flourishing port and city to serve Rome. Sadly very little fine stonework or marble left now, its' nearly all been recycled over the last two thousand years.
The port itself was liable to silt up with sand and a new one was built nearby, this also silted up with sand and another new one built at Civitaveccia, no silting up with sand here and so it’s still in use.
Bus trip to return to ship, rather late for dinner so its up to the buffet to enjoy dinner out on the open deck. It's still a lovely day with a lovely sunset.
This is the third day without a cloud in the sky. Can it Last?
End of our first week, lots of changes of passengers today, including the arrival of a couple of friends who also booked this part of our cruise unbeknown to each of us at the time of booking.
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