Roman villa of Ammaia, cultural heritage monument in Marvão, Portugal
Ammaia is a Roman city in São Salvador da Aramenha whose remains include walls, streets, and building foundations from ancient times. The excavation site encompasses baths, a forum, and other structures, along with ongoing archaeological work and an on-site museum displaying artifacts such as pottery and coins.
The city was founded about 2000 years ago and served as an important trade center during Roman times. It was abandoned after centuries of settlement and lay buried until archaeologists began excavating it in the 20th century, gradually revealing its layout and past.
The ruins reveal how a Roman city functioned in daily life, with remains of baths, homes, and public spaces still visible today. Walking between the old stones, visitors can sense how people once lived and worked in this place centuries ago.
Visiting is best done during daylight hours, and guides are available on-site to explain the different areas. A quiet location allows you to explore history at your own pace and observe ancient pathways and structures.
The site contains one of only five known Roman amphitheaters in the region, about 60 meters long, where ancient people watched events and contests. A 3D model of the Porta Oeste shows how this main gate once looked, helping visitors imagine the city at its height.
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