End of the Via Appia Antica, Archaeological site at the harbor in Brindisi, Italy
Two Roman columns at Brindisi's harbor mark the terminus of the Via Appia Antica, the ancient road that started in Rome. These stone shafts once guided ships and stood at the point where the long overland journey ended and sea travel began.
The columns were erected after Rome conquered Brindisi around 266 BC and made it a major port for trade and military operations. The construction of the Via Appia solidified this route as the primary land connection linking the capital to the southeastern coast.
The columns served as a symbol of completion for travelers arriving from Rome, showing how Romans linked long roads to distinctive landmarks. People gathered here as an important destination before boarding ships for their journeys eastward.
The site sits directly at the harbor and is freely accessible year-round without formal visiting hours or entrance requirements. Walking to the location is straightforward, and you can enjoy views of the harbor basin and the surrounding waterfront.
One of the original columns toppled during an earthquake in the 18th century but was later restored, showing how these structures endured over time. You can still observe the repair work where the stone was reassembled.
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