The Port of Claudius, commissioned by Emperor Claudius in 42 AD, was an important project to ensure the supply of the city of Rome through maritime transport. Located north of the mouth of the Tiber, this port extended over a large area of approximately 150 hectares and featured two curved piers and several docking docks. Dominating the entire structure was a large multi-storey lighthouse, similar to the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, probably located on an artificial island that divided the access to the port into two mouths.
Its construction was completed in 64 A.D. under the emperor Nero. The Port of Claudio operated in parallel with the river port of Ostia and the sea harbor of Pozzuoli, thus ensuring the constant flow of goods towards Rome. This port complex allowed for the safe transshipment of goods from ocean-going ships to riverboats used to sail down the Tiber to the city.
At least two artificial canals connected the Port of Claudius to the Tiber River, and the foundations of the northern pier are still visible today for a length of about one kilometer. Some functional structures, such as the Harbor Office, a cistern, and thermal buildings, were found along the northern quay, evidence of the complexity and size of the port infrastructure.
However, over time, the progressive silting led to a decrease in the efficiency and safety of the Port of Claudius, prompting the construction of a new basin, the Port of Trajan, between 100 and 112 AD, to further guarantee the maritime connection with the city of Rome.
INFO
The entrance is in via Portuense 2360 (in front of house number 2329), under the viaduct in via dell’Fiumicino Airport.
For information: e-mail: pa-oant.portus@cultura.gov.ittel.: 06 6529445
The security staff offers orientation and welcome services to the public.
Due to its proximity to Fiumicino airport, the archaeological area of Ostia Antica falls within the no drone zone: the use of drones of any type is prohibited, even for very low altitude flights.
How to get there: (we have chosen public transport)
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