Emporium

Emporium of Rome – The Ancient River Port

The Emporium was the main river port of Rome on the ancient Tiber River, active between the 3rd century BC and the 3rd century AD. It was the hub of Roman logistics and trade, a place for unloading and distributing goods coming from the Mediterranean and beyond: grain, wine, oil, building materials, spices, and more.
Goods arrived here to supply the city and the empire.

Composition and structure

• The Emporium consisted of docks, warehouses (horrea), loading and unloading areas, customs offices, and shops.
• Developed along the Tiber, near the current Testaccio district, it extended on both banks.
• Built with opus caementicium, bricks, and stone, the port was equipped with structures for loading, mooring, and defense.

What remains today

• The archaeological remains of the Emporium are mainly located near Ponte Testaccio, along Via Marmorata and Via del Porto Fluviale.
• Visible are sections of warehouses, docks, walls in opus caementicium, and port structures.
• Some areas have been integrated into the New Fish Market of Testaccio and the Testaccio Market, creating a fascinating contrast between ancient and modern.
• Access is largely free, but some zones can only be visited with guided tours.

How to visit

• The area is open-air; you can stroll along the streets to observe the visible remains.
• It is recommended to visit during the day, preferably in better daylight hours (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM).
• To deepen your knowledge, guided tours are available, organized by cultural associations or tour guides specializing in Roman archaeology.
• You can combine the visit with nearby museums such as the Museo di Roma in Trastevere or the Museo dell’Ara Pacis to enrich your historical understanding.

How to get there from The Rabbit Hole (Via Napoleone Parboni)

• Distance: about 1 km.
• On foot: walk south along Via Napoleone Parboni, then turn onto Via Marmorata. You’ll reach the archaeological area near Ponte Testaccio in 12–15 minutes.
• Public transport: buses H, N8, or 170 serve the area; the closest stops are near Via Marmorata or Piazza di Porta San Paolo.

Short archaeological itinerary from The Rabbit Hole

If you want to explore ancient Rome around The Rabbit Hole, here is a half-day itinerary combining history and archaeology:

1. Porticus Aemilia (Horrea)
   • Just 500 m on foot from The Rabbit Hole (6–8 min).
   • Visit the remains of the large Roman warehouse, admiring the imposing opus incertum structures.
2. Emporium of Rome
   • Continue south to reach the ancient river port.
   • Observe the docks and warehouses of the time, and visit the nearby Testaccio Market for a taste of contemporary life.
3. Monte Testaccio
   • About a 10-minute walk from the Emporium, this artificial hill is made of broken Roman amphorae, a testament to the vast commercial activity.
4. Museo di Roma in Trastevere (optional)
   • 15 minutes on foot or a short bus ride away.
   • Offers exhibitions on ancient Rome, with artifacts that complete the historical picture of the port and goods.