Civitavecchia, Italy

Whether you are staying there, or just visiting for the day, Civitavecchia offers tourists an exceptional display of historic and modern cultures.

Only a short drive from the centre of Rome, you will feel like you are stepping back in time to the historic world of Ancient Rome.

  • Civitavecchia’s port

    Civitavecchia

    The main attraction of the Civitavecchia, this port is the gateway to this incredible town and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The harbour was built in 100 AD after the Etruscans were taken over by the Romans. Emperor Trajan commissioned the poor, naming it Centum Cellae. Nowadays, there are an array of cruises, ferry lines, and personal boats that all use the port as their base point. For a breath of sea air, take a morning cruise to see the ocean sights.

  • Terme Taurine

    Terme Taurine

    Located 5km away from the city centre, this preserved bathing complex dates back to the ancient Roman times. Hidden by the large crowds of tourists, the baths sit on top of a hill to overlook out to the surrounding area. The name of the ‘Taurine Baths’ comes from the Latin word for ‘bull’ (Taurus) and the story of the name is based on legend. The story tells of a bull (associated with a divine character) that pawed the ground before charging into a fight and from the ground sprung a hot water spring. The name could also have come from the ancient lake of Aquae Tauri from where the water came. The therapeutical qualities of the waters were first discovered by the Etruscans but the baths were later developed by the ancient Romans. After battles between the Goth and Byzantines, the once-popular baths were abandoned until half-way through the twentieth century when they were partially restored.

    The bonus of this attraction is that there is very limited fencing, so you are able to walk freely around the remaining of the complex, touching the marvellous crumbling ruins. Stroll around where the pool would have been and investigate the changing rooms and massage rooms that would have been used in ancient times. The water here no longer runs but if you would like to take a dip in the hot springs then you can visit neighbouring Ficoncella.

  • Ficoncella Thermal Baths

    Another ancient area of baths, but for this one is fully operational! Despite their age, the Ficoncella Thermal Baths are fully excisable to modern-day visitors, letting you relax and soak in the plunging pools. The water that flows from the spring today is the same in which emperor Trajan bathed centuries ago!

    The waters of La Ficoncella has been credited with several therapeutic qualities. Dermatitis, arthritis and respiratory problems are all said to improve after a dip in the waters. Inhale the steam from the waters to improve a sore throat and bathe a wound to help it heal. The water can reach between 50-60degrees and bathing here can offer the ultimate in relaxation.

  • Fontana del Vanvitelli

    Fontana del Vanvitelli

    An old fountain that is made in the same material as the Colosseum. This charming fountain stands out within the neighbourhood for both its detail and historic past. The fountain was first put in to defend the city against enemy attacks. See the structure‘s incredible fountainhead of a half-human, half-goat creature.

  • Old Town Centre in Civitavecchia

    This is Civitavecchia’s oldest centre and is the heart of the old Medieval district. See the aged church, buildings, and decorations as you stroll through the cobblestone streets. In the middle of the town is Piazza Leandra, the oldest square in the city. In its centre is a medieval fountain that was reactivated in 2012 and watching over it is the Church of the Star that was built in 1688.

  • Fort Michelangelo

    Dominating the skyline of the Port di Civitavecchia is the 16th-century building of Fort Michelangelo. Pope Julius II commissioned this great structure form the Italian architect, Donato Bramante, to guard against the pirate invasions that threatened the security of the city. The construction was completed by Michelangelo in 1557 and the name of the building was dedicated to him. Fort Michelangelo is one of the most important  architectural structures on the Lazio coastline.

  • Cattedrale Di San Francesco

    This cathedral is devoted to Saint Francis of Assisi and it is here that the bishop holds holy mass. It was built in 1610 by Paul V as a church and was later rebuilt in 1782 under Pope Pius VI and it became a cathedral in 1805. Sadly, during the second world war, it fell victim to bombings and was seriously damaged. In 1950 it was fully restored.

    This beautiful Cathedral is reached by a wide staircase that leads to a beautiful façade with columns flanking the entrance. Inside is a single, central nave with beautiful golden decorations adorning the walls.

  • Natural Monument

    For a snap of nature, visit the Natural Monument! After centuries of sea erosion, has created a sunken beach, forming small bays and inlets bursting with wildlife. Grab some snorkelling gear and plunge into these waters to see the interesting creatures hidden below. Right opposite is La Frasca’s, Pine Forest! A large stretch of pine trees that has a mysterious and tranquil air about it.

  • Reaching Rome from Civitavecchia

    As the main seaport for Rome, Civitavecchia is well connected to Italy’s capital. Trains from Civitavecchia take less than an hour or you can drive the hour-long route. Soon you will find yourself within the cultural and historical hub that is Rome with its Colosseum, Pantheon, incredible artworks and Vatican City. Civitavecchia will make a great addition, and starting point to your incredible Roman adventure.

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