Ostia
During our visit to Rome last autumn, we stayed at campsite Fabulous, just south of Rome. From there it is only a 20 minute drive to the Pontile di Ostia, where we watched the best sunset in a very relaxed atmosphere. In between, one will pass Ostia Antica, with its stunning ancient Roman remnants, which we did not visit, unfortunately, but also a 15th century castle, situated just next to main road. Ofcourse, I had to stop here and rephotograph Kurt Hielscher's photo from 1949.
Rocca di Ostia or the Castello di Giulio II, Ostia Antica, 1939. Photo: Kurt Hielscher.
Rocca di Ostia or the Castello di Giulio II, Ostia Antica, 19th of October 2023. Photo: Casper Molenaar.
The name of the Castle derives from cardinal Giuliano della Rovere, the future Pope Julius II (1503-1513) and it dates back to 1483. It is one of the most important examples of Renaissance military architecture with cannon-proof rooms, so called casemates.
In the 19th century the castle was used as a prison for criminals sentenced to forced labor amongst which the first archaeological excavations that made Ostia Antica famous. A second photo from Kurt Hielscher is probably to be found within the complex, but as said, we did not visit it that late afternoon. I guess I always find a reason to go back.
Ofcourse also checked out Ostia itself and went for dinner.
View on Ostia from its beach.
Romantic moments with the whole family on the Pontile di Ostia at sunset.
Below: View on the pier, the Pontile di Ostia at sunset.
