
Capitolium Ostia
Explore the remarkably preserved ancient Roman port city of Ostia Antica, featuring the grand Capitolium and vast ruins.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Capitolium Ostia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remarkably preserved ancient Roman port city of Ostia Antica, featuring the grand Capitolium and vast ruins.
"Honestly I barely scratched the surface. You need at least a full day to fully enjoy this massive ancient city. "

🚗 Rent a Scooter/Mini Car
Navigate the vast Ostia Antica site with ease and cover more ground. Definitely worth it! :scooter:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient surfaces. Prioritize comfort for exploring the ruins. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Capitolium
Central Forum
The largest structure in Ostia, featuring a massive staircase and impressive front entrance design. A truly jaw-dropping landmark.

Ancient Ostia Park City
Entire archaeological site
Explore well-preserved ruins and monuments from BC times, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman life.

On-site Museum
Within Ostia Antica
Discover artifacts and exhibits that complement the outdoor ruins, providing deeper historical context.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The Capitolium, a Roman temple dedicated to the main triad of Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, in the forum of Ostia, Italy. It was built during the reign of Hadrian (circa 120 CE). A marble altar, with a frieze depicting weaponry, stands before the steps. [OC]
🚗 Rent a Scooter/Mini Car
Navigate the vast Ostia Antica site with ease and cover more ground. Definitely worth it! :scooter:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient surfaces. Prioritize comfort for exploring the ruins. :athletic_shoe:
Ostia Antica is amazing and impressed me more than Pompeii. Some of my pics
Planning a trip to Italy and could use some suggestions for historical places to see
⏳ Allow a Full Day
Don't underestimate the size! A full day is recommended to truly appreciate this massive ancient city. :clock1:
🏛️ Compare to Pompeii
Many find Ostia Antica easier to visualize and more impressive than Pompeii. :classical_building:
I'm making a trip to Rome this summer, what lees knows places and historical sites I should visit ?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Scooter/Mini Car
Navigate the vast Ostia Antica site with ease and cover more ground. Definitely worth it! :scooter:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient surfaces. Prioritize comfort for exploring the ruins. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allow a Full Day
Don't underestimate the size! A full day is recommended to truly appreciate this massive ancient city. :clock1:
🏛️ Compare to Pompeii
Many find Ostia Antica easier to visualize and more impressive than Pompeii. :classical_building:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the scale and preservation of Ostia Antica, often finding it more evocative and easier to visualize than Pompeii. The Capitolium is highlighted as a particularly striking landmark. While some parts are indeed ruined, the overall experience offers a deep dive into ancient Roman life, especially when visited on quieter weekdays.
"Most of the city is destroyed but the capitolium looks like it was one of the biggest buildings during the time. With its massive stair case and front entrance design, this makes it one of many jaw dropping landmarks throughout the antique Ostia park city."
Miguel Castillo
"The Capitolium was cool, the largest structure in the ruins. Going up it is closed to the public though."
Joey Cal
"I was there on Wednesday and only few people were there. Very nice place. I liked it more than forum romanum. :)"
Barbora Lamacova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Capitolium Ostia is part of the larger Ostia Antica archaeological site. You can reach it by taking the Roma-Lido train from Piramide station in Rome to the Ostia Antica stop. The journey takes about 30 minutes. From the station, it's a short walk to the entrance.
The site is extensive. While walkable, renting a mini car or scooter is recommended by some visitors to cover more ground efficiently.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available. However, navigating and parking can be challenging, and some prefer the ease of public transport or renting a scooter for the site itself.
The Roma-Lido train is a popular and convenient option for a day trip from Rome. It's cost-effective and drops you close to the entrance.
While there isn't extensive internal transport, renting a scooter or mini-car is a popular way to explore the vastness of the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Capitolium Ostia is within the Ostia Antica archaeological park, so you'll need an entry ticket for the entire site. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website for current admission fees.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and guarantee entry. Check the official Ostia Antica website for booking options.
Opening hours for Ostia Antica typically vary by season. It's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the Capitolium is a prominent structure, access to climb it may be restricted. Visitors can admire its grandeur from the outside and the surrounding forum area.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or EU citizens. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office or check the official website for eligibility and details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Capitolium is the largest and most imposing structure in the ancient city of Ostia, dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. It features a grand staircase and impressive architecture, making it a highlight of the ruins.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least a full day to fully explore Ostia Antica, as it's a vast site. Some spent 4 hours and felt they barely scratched the surface.
It can be less crowded than other major Roman sites, especially if you visit on a weekday. Some visitors found it very quiet and pleasant on a Wednesday.
Beyond the Capitolium, explore the well-preserved theater, baths, mosaics, apartment buildings (insulae), and the on-site museum.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the archaeological site. It's a fantastic place for capturing images of ancient Roman architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand staircase and the front entrance of the Capitolium offer iconic photo opportunities. Capturing the scale of the structure against the sky is highly recommended.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more dramatic lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and reducing crowds.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, professional photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check site regulations.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive ruins and architecture. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or capturing details.
Photography rules for the museum can vary. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask a staff member about their policy on photographing exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Consider renting a scooter or mini-car to make navigating the large site easier with younger children. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the ruins can be limited. Visiting on a weekday will also ensure a more relaxed experience for the whole family.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tip: Pack your own lunch and snacks to save on dining costs within the archaeological park. Focus on exploring the free-to-roam outdoor ruins and the museum, which are included with your admission ticket. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of the Capitolium
This temple, dedicated to the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva), was a central hub for religious ceremonies and public gatherings. Its construction reflects the wealth and power of Ostia as Rome's primary port. The remnants offer a powerful visual testament to the city's former glory, even in its ruined state.
Photographers often find the Capitolium to be a prime subject, with its dramatic lines and historical weight providing compelling imagery. Capturing its silhouette against the sky or the details of its remaining stonework can be a rewarding experience for any visitor.
Exploring the Vastness of Ostia Antica
Travelers often compare it favorably to Pompeii, noting that Ostia is sometimes easier to visualize and comprehend due to its layout and preservation. The site includes a small but informative museum that houses artifacts found during excavations, providing crucial context to the outdoor ruins.
To make the most of your visit, consider renting a scooter or mini-car to navigate the extensive grounds efficiently. This allows you to cover more ground and spend quality time at each significant area without excessive walking.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit