Via Appia one of the roads to Rome
Via Appia (The Appian Way) is one of Rome's most famous ancient roads.
Appian Way was built by Appius Claudius Caecus 312 BC.
Overall, it was way over 560 km and ranged from Romeanum Forum in Rome for what is today called Brindisi.
Brindisi is located on Italy's east side about midway on the heel of the Italian "boot".
The road consists mainly of large stones bound together by a finer grit. The roads in Rome and especially the Via Appia was of great importance since it facilitated trade and communications with mainly Greece, but also other countries in the East.
Along the ancient road was played out many historical events. The most famous and bloodiest is when the Roman soldiers crucified over 6000 slaves along the Appian Way after they had beaten down the Spartacus slave rebellion that took place in 73 BC
Appian is still there and along the route there are many important tombs and buildings.
The Christian catacombs of San Sebastian, San Domitilla, San Callixtus (Callisto) and the impressive Cecilia Metella tomb you will find along the way.
Appian is rich in history and if it is not too hot, a hike or bike ride is recommended for Rometuristen.
The part of the Via Appia now called Via Sacra in central Rome begins at the Capitol, passing through Forum Romeanum and turn right after the Arch of Titus. This old road passes Palatine Hill and Circus Maximus on to Caracalla and then reach the impressive gate Saint Sebastian. The remains of the aqueduct of Claudius is also nearby, and is still well preserved. If you continue hiking caller reaches you then catacombs mentioned above.