Via appia antica – longarum regina viarum

Via Appia, the oldest Roman road, called „the queen of all roads” in ancient times, was built in 312 BC on the initiative of censor Appius Claudius Caecus. Its part, closest to Rome, was considered a significant and prestigious place by Romans. In the Republic influential aristocratic families erected magnificent tombs and monuments, in temples, however, their victories were reminded. Roman emperors took care of the road and thus, it was very often rebuilt. They wanted the entry to Rome from the southern side to make a monumental impression on people who were arriving in the Empire. The road was of strategic importance as it connected Rome and the main port in the east, Brundisium. It was frequently used. The proof of it is a fact that in the times of the Empire it had a stone surface. Its significance is proved by the fact that along the road, triumphal arches were erected to commemorate victories over Egypt and Partia – in this part of the city it was thoroughly justified