Work on the grand port of Claudius was begun by the emperor in 42 A.D. The realization of this construction of immense proportions took years, so many in fact that the inauguration took place under Emperor Nero in 64 A.D.Despite being colossal, the project turned out to be inadequate. Already in 62 A.D., as recorded by Tacitus, a storm destroyed 200 ships which were anchored in the harbour, and moreover in the following decades the port progressively became covered in sand.

Such problems spurred Trajan to create a new harbour further inland between 100 and 112 A.D. The Port of Trajan is connected to the sea by an even older port and to the Tiber River by an artificial canal, Fossa Traiana or Trajan's Ditch, today known as the Fiumicino Canal. The rest of Portus city (the "port" of Rome par excellence) is around three km from the current coastline: the modern road network, infrastructure and progressive urbanization, have made it difficult to single out on land. 

Programme of Events - October 2018

Maps: Map reading and storytelling 

Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 October, 3pm

Maps tell us many stories: the stories of an ancient Mediterranean crossed by ships transporting goods from port to port; the stories of sailors who tackled the waves to return home; the stories of a sea that has always united, never divided. 
In the “Maps: Map reading and storytelling” workshop, children will build their own map and learn which routes over land and sea were used to transport grain, wine, wood and precious stones. Come find us at the Archaeological Area of Porto di Traiano in Fiumicino.
FREE INITIATIVE, FOR CHILDREN 7 YEARS AND OVER
To take part: Tel. +39 3371175780 - prenotazioni@navigareilterritorio.it
https://www.facebook.com/events/320343195186083/

Masks, myths and legends - children’s workshop 
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October, 3pm

Ancient mythology and religion were an endless source of characters and adventures. With masks, legends and myths from the world of sailing, discover the fascinating civilisation of Ancient Rome, full of powerful gods, mysterious creatures and fearless heroes, such as the smart and curious Ulysses. 
After a short introduction to the world of ancient mythology and the mythology of sailing in particular, in the workshop children will recreate the character taken from their mask, myth or legend of choice.
FREE INITIATIVE, FOR CHILDREN 3 YEARS AND OVER
To take part: Tel. +39 3371175780 - prenotazioni@navigareilterritorio.it
https://www.facebook.com/events/379465819260558/

Exhibition: Arteporto. Oltremare

Until 28 October visit the modern art exhibition “Arteporto. Oltremare” (Artport. Overseas), curated by Sandro Polo, Silvia Calvarese and the GAF - Glocal Art Factory. 
Saturday and Sunday, 11am - Travelling modern art workshop for children
Saturday 5pm, Sunday 10am - Guided visits of the modern art exhibition

Archaeologists in the making  

Every Sunday at 11am and 3pm in the Archaeological Area of Porto di Traiano in Fiumicino is a special workshop inviting you to discover the fascinating work of archaeologists. An unusual opportunity to experience the only Roman port still intact to this day, two thousand years later. A meeting point for communication and one of the main gateways to Rome.
After a brief explanation, we will play out an archaeologist’s fieldwork, applying traditional techniques and methods from the discipline and using dedicated past excavation areas. Children will learn in a safe environment that combines theoretical aspects with practical ability. 
FREE INITIATIVE
Sign-up is necessary to take part: prenotazioni@navigareilterritorio.it, WhatsApp Tel. +39 3371175780