Itius Portus, Ancient Roman port in Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France
Itius Portus was a Roman port on the present-day French coast near Calais, with remains of ship facilities and harbor walls. The excavation sites show traces of warehouses, shipyards, and other structures used for shipbuilding and storing goods.
Caesar chose this location in 54 BC as the launching point for his military forces sailing to Britain. It became one of the most important Roman operations against the Britons during this period.
The site shows how Romans and Britons exchanged goods across the sea. Pottery, coins, and tools found there tell the story of this active trade network.
The site is located in a flat area near Calais and can be reached on foot or by car. Comfortable clothing and shoes are useful since these are excavation areas with exposed structures.
Archaeologists disagree on the exact location of the ancient port, and several coastal sites compete for this identification. Some believe the harbor was lost to silting or flooding, leaving only fragmented remains.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
