Porta Raudusculana

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! As your tourist guide, I am excited to take you on a journey through history and show you one of the ancient gates of Rome, the Porta Raudusculana. The Porta Raudusculana was an ancient gate in Rome that is no longer standing. It was located between the two hills of Aventino, approximately in the center of the modern Viale Aventino, at the intersection with Via San Saba. According to some hypotheses, the ancient Via Laurentina vetus started from this gate. The name "Raudusculana" comes from an ancient etymology that refers to the meaning of "bronze." This adjective can be explained as either a bronze gate or a bronze mask sculpted or affixed to the gate itself, according to an episode reported by Valerio Massimo. In the first case, it is possible to think that the gate could have been covered in bronze not only for aesthetic purposes but also as reinforcement and armor. In fact, the stretch of Servian walls from the gate to the banks of the Tiber seems to be among the strongest of the entire city wall. Although the Porta Raudusculana is no longer standing, there are still some remains that are quite well-preserved. One of the two archaeological testimonies of what could be considered defensive artillery platforms is visible near the gate. At a short distance from the gate, there is still an archway, opened at a certain height, which studies agree is a position for a throwing weapon such as a catapult or a ballista. Visiting the Porta Raudusculana is a unique opportunity to discover the ancient history of Rome and its impressive defensive structures. The area around the gate is also worth exploring, as it is full of charming streets and beautiful buildings. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of ancient Rome!

Location: Rome

Source: Wikimedia