Via Appia - Italy

 Roman roads last centuries, and this one is the the oldest and most important of the great roads built by the Ancient Romans. Via Appia was classified as UNESCO WHS in 2024.

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More than 800 kilometres long, the Via Appia, was constructed and developed from 312 BCE to the 4th century CE, it was originally conceived as a strategic road for military conquest, advancing towards the East and Asia Minor. The Via Appia later enabled the cities it connected to grow and new settlements emerged, facilitating agricultural production and trade. This property, composed of 19 component parts, is a fully developed ensemble of engineering works, illustrating the advanced technical skill of Roman engineers in the construction of roads, civil engineering projects, infrastructure and sweeping land reclamation works, as well as a vast series of monumental structures including, for example, triumphal arches, baths, amphitheatres and basilicas, aqueducts, canals, bridges, and public fountains. - in: https://whc.unesco.org

 

In Rome, Via Appia starts just outside the historic center, near the Porta San Sebastiano (part of the Aurelian Walls). It stretches southeast from there, quickly transitioning into a beautiful, green archaeological park. 

The Appian Way is still in use today, and it is a popular tourist destination. The road is lined with ancient ruins, including tombs, catacombs, and churches. Visitors can walk or bike along the road, and they can also visit the nearby archaeological sites.