Servian Wall: Ancient Rome's Republican Defense
Explore the remnants of Rome's ancient defensive barrier, the Servian Wall, a testament to the city's early military and engineering might.
The Servian Wall, named after the sixth Roman King Servius Tullius, though built later, stands as a testament to the early Republic's engineering and military prowess. Constructed in the early 4th century BC, after the Gallic invasion of 390 BC exposed the city's vulnerability, the wall served as a formidable defense for Rome. Built from large blocks of volcanic tuff, the wall stretched for approximately 11 kilometers, encircling the city's seven hills. It stood up to 10 meters high and 3.6 meters wide in places, featuring 16 main gates and defensive structures like towers and catapults. The wall not only protected Rome from external threats but also played a crucial role in defining the city's boundaries and influencing its urban development. Over time, as Rome's military strength grew, the Servian Wall's importance diminished. The city expanded beyond its confines, and during the first three centuries of the Roman Empire, Rome remained essentially unwalled. In the 3rd century AD, Emperor Aurelian constructed the larger Aurelian Walls to protect the city from Germanic tribes. Today, sections of the Servian Wall can still be seen throughout Rome, offering a tangible link to the city's ancient past. Notable remnants can be found near Termini Station, in Piazza dei Cinquecento, and on the Aventine Hill. These surviving sections provide a glimpse into the scale and construction of this once-mighty defensive barrier, inviting visitors to imagine the world of Republican Rome.
Local tips
- The most accessible and largest section of the Servian Wall is located outside Termini Station.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby National Roman Museum to learn more about the historical context of the wall.
- Look for the remains of the wall incorporated into modern structures, such as the McDonald's at Termini Station, for a unique blend of ancient and contemporary Rome.
A brief summary to Servian Wall
- Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00185, IT
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Servian Wall has several visible sections. A primary section is easily accessible from Termini Station, Rome's main transportation hub. From Termini, follow signs for the Via Giovanni Giolitti exit. Upon exiting, the wall is located on the left side of the station. Rome's public transport system includes metro, buses, and trams. A single ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes on all modes of transport. Alternatively, a 24-hour ticket costs €7. From Termini, you can also take the Metro Line A or B to other locations where the wall is visible. For example, taking Line A to Vittorio Emanuele will bring you close to the Arch of Gallienus, which incorporates a gate from the Servian Wall.
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Walking
Many sections of the Servian Wall are within walking distance of major attractions and transport hubs. From Termini Station, the most prominent section of the wall is a short walk. Walking from the Colosseum or Roman Forum: Head north towards Termini Station. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes. You'll find a significant portion of the wall on the left side as you face the front of Termini Station. Walking from Piazza della Repubblica: Walk east along Via Terme di Diocleziano. This route leads directly to the area outside Termini Station where the wall is visible.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Rome. From Termini Station, a short taxi ride to a specific section of the Servian Wall (e.g., near the Aventine Hill or Piazza Albania) will cost approximately €8-€15, plus a €2 surcharge from Termini Station. Taxi fares in Rome start at €3.50 during the day, with additional charges based on distance and time. A short trip within the city center should not exceed €12. Be sure the taxi is official and the meter is running.
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Driving
Driving in Rome can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. If driving, head towards Termini Station. Parking near Termini is available but can be expensive. Consider parking outside the city center and using public transport. Metro Line A has parking at Battistini station, costing around €0.50 per hour or €5-8 per day. From there, take the metro to Termini or another location near the Servian Wall. If parking near Termini, expect to pay €20-€40 daily at a garage. Be aware of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) restrictions in the city center.
