Discover the hidden landscape beneath Rome’s city with visits to the Monte Testaccio and the Caelian Hill Houses
Marvel at the largest stone map of the Roman Republic at the Museo della Forma Urbis Romae
Explore the Latin city-states of Gabii and Palestrina, including the enchanting Nile mosaic
“Wonderful tour, both cerebral and fun”
– ACE customer on the 2025 Everyday Life in Rome tour led by Eireann Marshall
“Since its demise, Rome has never ceased to entrance people. Mention of the so-called Caput Mundi, or the ‘Capital of the World’, inevitably conjures up the Colosseum, extravagant palaces on the Palatine or the astonishing Pantheon. While these are deservedly famous monuments, it is perhaps even more interesting to consider how Rome, the first metropolis whose population surpassed one million, was able to survive”
– Tour Director Eireann Marshall
Caput Mundi or ‘Capital of the World’, Rome was central to the establishment of the Roman Kingdom, Roman Republic and Roman Empire, and is regarded as the first imperial city and metropolis. It was from here that famed emperors, such as Caesar, Augustus and Nero, extended their control and influence into much of the western world.
Beyond the grandeur of emperors, wars and political games, this tour will delve into the daily lives of Roman society. We will unearth the personal histories of the Eternal City, from the commercial hustle of the Forum Boarium to the unique archaeological insights offered by the pottery fragments of the Monte Testaccio.
Through visits to the Baths of Diocletian and Caracalla, two of the largest Roman public bath complexes, we will also learn how Roman citizens spent their leisure time. Not merely spaces for bathing, these vibrant social hubs were where citizens gathered to exercise, study and conduct business, offering a compelling insight into social organisation within public spaces.
“Clues left behind by little-explored archaeological remains allow us to appreciate how vast quantities of goods arrived from all over the empire and were redistributed to the populace. Furthermore, by exploring the Testaccio area and by sailing up the Tiber, we can see how Romans archived, stored and recycled amphorae; examining the ports of Ostia and Portus, we are also able to grasp just how complex the Roman economy was, employing huge numbers of workers who were able to pay for their food, rather than growing it”
– Tour Director Eireann Marshall
Meanwhile, at the underground Caelian Houses, we will consider the private sphere of ancient life. Hidden beneath the Basilica of St Paul, this remarkable archaeological site offers a unique perspective on ancient Rome’s urban planning and the intricate, multi-layered residential life of the city's inhabitants.
To gain a more complete understanding of the landscape of Rome, we will visit the Museo della Forma Urbis Romae, home to the largest stone map of the Roman Republic. This stunning reconstruction offers a unique viewpoint of the urbanisation of ancient Rome, showing the layouts of districts, houses, temples and shops.
We will also take time to explore Rome’s environs in the ancient city-states of Palestrina and Gabii. Once a luxurious getaway for Roman elites, Palestrina is renowned for its massive 2nd century BCE Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, including the famous Nile Mosaic, providing a glimpse into Rome’s interaction with the greater Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the recently unearthed Gabii settlement flourished in the archaic to mid-Republican eras, becoming a significant rival to Rome. Here, we hope to be able to view the Temple of Juno Gabina as well as marvel at the lapis gabinus quarries, which provided stone for many late Republican era buildings in the capital.
We will also visit Ostia Antica: likely established as a naval base, the site was developed into a prominent commercial harbour city and urbanisation during the 2nd century BCE before being sacked by pirates in 68 BCE. Ostia’s gradual rebuilding under Cicero, subsequent decline following the establishment of nearby Portus as a municipality, and influx from sand dunes, resulted in the immaculate preservation of ancient buildings, beautiful frescoes and mosaics.
“Uncovering this story of everyday life in Rome involves visiting little-known sites, as well as ones specifically opened for us. As important as it is for us to understand the splendour of ancient Rome, it is equally important to experience the industry and trade which allowed the city to function”
– Tour Director Eireann Marshall
We will stay throughout at the three-star Hotel Albergo Santa Chiara. This comfortable and welcoming establishment is ideally situated in Rome, within walking distance of iconic sites including the Pantheon and Largo di Torre Argentina. Originally opened as a wine shop before becoming a small inn, the hotel is steeped in character and maintains a blend of classic, characterful design with modern amenities.
Eireann Marshall
Eireann is an experienced tour leader, having led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa.
This tour will be led by Eireann Marshall, PhD, a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University. Eireann was raised in the Veneto and educated at Barnard College, Columbia University, as well as the universities of Birmingham and Exeter. She is an experienced tour leader, having led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa. Eireann has published several articles on Ancient North Africa, and co-edited books on classical civilisation.
7
£3165
ELRO-26
Places are limited.
Please contact the office for more details on 01223 841055.
Included: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a standard twin or double bedded room, six breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes.
Not Included: travel insurance, single superior room supplement £250, standard double room for single use supplement £495.
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