Latin: Via Appia
The Appian Way, or Via Appia Antica in Rome, is one of the most famous ancient roads.
It was built in 312 B.C. by Appius Claudius Caecus. In its entirety, it spanned 350 miles(563 km). The Appian Way stretched from the Roman Forum to modern-day Brindisi. Large stones made up the bulk of its construction, and softer gravel that was compacted between the rocks cemented it.
Roman roads, and especially the Appian Way, were extremely important to Rome. It allowed trade and access to the East, specifically Greece.
The Appian Way is visible today, and many significant tombs and architecture line its borders. It was this Via Appia Antica road that many events took place. It might be most famous for its role in the slave revolt led by Spartacus in 73 B.C.
After the Roman army subdued the insurrection, they crucified more than 6000 slaves and lined the Appian Way for 130 miles with their bodies.
The Appian Way is also lined with tombs of ancient patrician families of Rome. Among the tombs, one will find the Christian catacombs, San Sebastian, San Domitilla, San Callixtus, and the most impressive, the tomb of Cecilia Metella. Walking along this road is rich in history and vision, a good starting place is at the gate of San Sebastiano.
The Appian Way is so rich in history and significance and is really a valuable experience. It is said to be the road on which Peter had his vision from Christ and headed back to the city of Rome to be persecuted.
The part of Via Appia, which is now called Via Sacra (Sacred Way, in the city center of Rome), begins at Capitol Hill. It passes through the Roman Forum, leaving it just after the Arch of Titus. This ancient road also borders the Palatine and the Circus Maximus, as well as Caracalla’s Baths, reaching the imposing gate of St. Sebastian.
The remains of aqueduct Claudius are also located nearby and are still well preserved.