Things to do

Scavo archeologico Via Appia 39

Via Appia Antica, 39, 00179 Roma RM

Rating: 5.0 ★ (1 rating)

Details

Scavo archeologico Via Appia 39 represents a unique archaeological excavation situated along the historic Via Appia Antica, just beyond Rome's ancient Aurelian Walls, where the road crosses the Almone River. This fascinating site reveals a compelling "border landscape," significant for its sacred and funerary history. What makes it truly stand out for visitors is its active nature, serving as a dynamic research project managed by the University of Ferrara's ECeC Laboratory, thereby restoring a previously occupied area to the public realm for the first time.

Discoveries here have unearthed an extensive necropolis, covering more than six centuries, featuring funerary structures adorned with exquisite mosaics, ancient inscriptions, and decorative elements linked to ancient cults and beliefs about immortality. Visitors can also find frescoes, coins, sarcophagi, and various tombstones, offering a tangible connection to Rome's past. The excavation notably employs an interdisciplinary approach, blending archaeology with anthropology, geophysics, and other sciences, providing an opportunity for immersive, "on-board" archaeological visits.

This site is ideally suited for those with a keen interest in Roman history and archaeology, offering a distinctive, hands-on understanding of ongoing scientific work. History enthusiasts and students alike will appreciate the participatory archaeology experience and the chance to witness new discoveries unfold. Its location on the Queen of Roads further enhances its appeal, providing a compelling layer to any visit exploring Rome's ancient world and the continuous efforts to uncover its secrets.

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https://www.istitutorestauroroma.it/notizie-dal-settore-del-restauro/149-scavo-archeologico-appia-antica-39.html

Comments

Roberto Cecchini

7 Apr 2026

5.0 ★

A laudable and absolutely fruitful initiative that deserves to be added to Maps and with its FIRST review: what is it about? It's an excavation—but there are many—that has the peculiarity of being on the side of the road in an area that would have been considered already explored, next to the tomb of Geta and opposite the former Cartiera Latina... and searching for what must have been the temple of Mars Gradivus, located according to studies in this area (a short distance from where tradition holds the meeting between St. Peter and Christ), a very rich and very interesting site was discovered, which, however, is attributable to a burial ground, a typology frequently found along the entire route of the Regina Viarum. Initiated by a group affiliated with the University of Ferrara, this excavation has since its inception engaged the public in tours and educational activities, veritable workshops of practical archaeology. As the work progressed, it uncovered stunning artifacts, from the well-crafted tuff walls to all the partitions dividing the various structures, which were enriched with paintings, not only in the arcosolia—clearly visible, as are the urns—but also on the walls. In many rooms, there are remains of mosaic floors, including a section featuring a stunning peacock in black and white tiles. Many artifacts have already been recovered, and the excavation—which began just over two years ago—will now be interrupted to begin research. This site will undoubtedly be restored, secured, and turned into a museum in the near future, allowing it to be enjoyed by the many visitors who pass by and peer through the fence (many openings have been conducted by the highly efficient, highly trained, and welcoming team—Editor's note). I had the privilege of participating in the latest opening and hope to return soon to see the restoration. For now, I'm sharing the photos and inviting you to stop by and take a look, keeping an eye on the construction site. Need some useful info? Then leave a like and check out the other reviews on Rome and beyond.