Sounds like a fancy Italian cocktail...

The name conjures up for me an image of a tall glass of alcoholic cocktail goodness italiano style.  But no, Ostia Antica is one of the best preserved examples of an ancient roman city (oh, wait, there IS Rome) Take 2: Perhaps more accurately  described as best preserved example of an abandoned Roman city. Ostia Antica was once the most important sea port of Roman Empire, handling more goods than any other. Situated at the mouth of the Tiber, it proves that all roads do lead to Rome, this one is just wetter than the others. Sea faring ships loaded their cargo directly to smaller vessels that could navigate the Tiber or into storage until this transfer could be effected.

The area of ruins is extensive and the accompanying narrative similar. There are distinct parts to the layout of the city and the challenge is to try and imagine the bustling metropolis with all the stucco in place. Its a bit like seeing a whole lot of modern houses without the weatherboards, brick work or plaster walls. A close look at the photo shows a hint of how it may have looked.

Technically we visited a day spa whilst here. Below is the pool I imagined swanning about in... its just that we were a few thousand years too late for our time slot.