The Appian Way is a 4th century BC road built when Appius Claudius held the office of censor in Rome. It was built in order to set up a fast communication between Rome and Capua - covering around 132 miles.
Today you can walk 8 miles of the Appian Way, starting at Porta San Sabastiano, where there is a information centre where you can get a free map of the walk (without a map you will not have a clue what the ruins are!!). There is also a museum and cafe.
The road is lined with ancient ruins and tombs of noble Roman families.
At the start of the walk is the a 17th century reconstructed church of Domine Quo Vadis, at the place where St. Peter is said to have had a vision of Jesus - the footprints on a marble slab in the centre of the church are supposed to be those of Jesus. Other highlights include the Tomb of Cecilia Metella (3 miles from start) and Villa dei Quintili (5 miles from start).
You will also find several Catacombs (underground cemeteries), on the route that you can visit for a fee, but some months, particulary in winter they may be closed. Highights include the Catacomb of St Domitilla; the Catacomb of St Callistus; and the Catacomb of St Sebastian.
There are not many refreshment establishments on the walk. There is a cafe after 3 miles of walking at Via Cevilia Metella and at some of the Catacombs, but I would recommend you take water and some food with you on the walk in case they are closed.
Location
Start at Porta San Sabastiano.
How to Get There
From Termini - Metro Blue B Line to Circo Massimo, then Bus 118
 | | Entrance to Villa dei Quintili |
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