This is the itinerary that better than any other bears witness to the role of the Tiber in the history of Rome: a communication and trade route, a source of wealth and a privileged channel linking the civilisations of the ancient Mediterranean. The river made this area the reason for the birth and development of Rome, the place where the first bridge was built in the 6th century B.C. and where the main thoroughfares of ancient Italy converged.
Today, the area is home to two of the best preserved Roman temples, those of Hercules and Portunus, an imposing arch from the Imperial age, and the beautiful medieval basilica of S. Maria in Cosmedin, which houses the iconic Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) in its portico. Besides admiring all this, we will discover what Rome looked like three thousand years ago and talk about trade in ancient times: ports, ships, warehouses and much more. In fact, the city’s first river port, the cattle market and the herb market were all located in this area. Crossing the Fabricius Bridge, built in 62 BC and still perfectly preserved, we arrive at the Tiber Island. The tour ends in Trastevere, where two structures were to be found, linked to the Tiber in the papal era: the river port of Ripa Grande and the arsenal of Porta Portese: vanished testimonies, together with the "mills" and the trade and life on the river which survived until the 19th century.
The visit is organised by AGTAR-Associazione Guide Turistiche Abilitate Roma (Association of Qualified Tourist Guides Rome), the largest association of guides in Lazio, which proposes a number of specific itineraries for those who want to admire Rome and its surroundings while walking in the open air and at the same time increase their knowledge of the river.
The visits respect the philosophy of the Tiberland DMO: to make known sites of exceptional interest but different from those crowded by mass tourism; to promote open-air itineraries and interaction with the city and the population; to promote responsible and quality tourism, respecting the land and the local economy.
All of this is carried out to the highest quality standards: visits are conducted only by licensed tourist guides, professionals certified by the professional association AGTAR.
The guide adapts explanations and timing to the visitors, to offer an optimal experience, which varies according to age and needs.
Services
-
Visits
Available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese
Additional Info
- The visit takes place outside: there is no entry to places and monuments with a ticket to pay.
- The prices refer to the fee for the guide.
- Transport, any entrance tickets and reservations, any radio / earphones for groups, any on-site drinks and any other extras are not included.
- Payment - by credit card or bank transfer or cash - will be made directly to the guide.
- The visits begin at a meeting point in the area of the chosen itinerary.
