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Archaeological Area of Aquileia

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Aquileia, founded in 181 BC as a Roman military colony, grew into one of the largest and most prosperous cities of the Roman Empire. Located at the northern tip of the Adriatic Sea, the city served as a strategic gateway to the Balkans and Central Europe. Today, the archaeological site impresses with the remains of the ancient river port, the forum, and the magnificent Basilica of Aquileia. The basilica is particularly famous for its 4th-century mosaic floor, which at approximately 760 square meters is the largest Christian mosaic complex in the Western world. In the 5th century, the city was destroyed during Attila's invasion, forcing residents to flee to the Venetian lagoon. However, Aquileia maintained its significance as a spiritual center, serving as the seat of the Patriarchate until the 18th century. Since 1998, the entire archaeological zone has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. Excavations are still ongoing, continuously revealing new treasures of Roman daily culture and sacred art.

Location: Italy
Top sights: Museo Paleocristiano · Domus delle bestie ferite · Domus dei putti danzanti
Nearby: Bistrigna (11 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	1	5	10	14	19	21	21	16	11	6	1
Rain mm	65	76	77	75	96	86	81	95	116	111	121	96

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The archaeological site of Aquileia is mostly accessible outdoors; the excavation areas and the basilica can be visited. The basilica and museum usually have an entrance fee, while the grounds themselves are freely walkable.

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Typical hours

The archaeological area is open year-round during daytime, while the basilica typically has seasonal hours. In summer hours are longer, in winter shorter; it's best to check current times on-site or online.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site and inside the basilica without flash. Permits may be required for professional shoots or drones; inquire at the ticket office.

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Time needed

Allow at least two to three hours for the site to appreciate the mosaics and excavations. Those also wanting to visit the museum should add another hour.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby town of Grado, which features Roman baths and a beautiful lagoon. The Aquileia basilica itself and the early Christian museum are on site.

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Getting there

Aquileia is easily reached by car via the A4 motorway; parking is available near the archaeological site. By train, arrive at Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado station, with bus connections from there.

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Insider tip

Visit the site early in the morning to see the mosaics in the best light and avoid crowds. An audio guide or guided tour helps understand the Roman history and Christian mosaics.

Geography

Coordinates

45.77970, 13.36830

Facts

UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998 for the archaeological area and basilica
Founded in 181 BC to defend against Celts and Histrians
The basilica's mosaic floor covers about 760 square meters from the 4th century
Aquileia was Italy's fourth largest city in the 2nd century AD
Destruction by Attila the Hun in 452 AD
The ancient river port on the Natissa was over 350 meters long

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Aquileia1 km · SExplore →

Bistrigna11 km · EExplore →

Grado11 km · SExplore →

Monfalcone13 km · EExplore →

Marano Lagunare16 km · WExplore →

Villaggio del Pescatore17 km · EExplore →

Duino18 km · EExplore →

Sistiana21 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Archaeological Area of Aquileia (10)

Museo Paleocristiano 🏛 museum

Monastery in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy, housing early Christian artifacts.

Domus delle bestie ferite

Roman house with mosaics depicting wounded animals.

Domus dei putti danzanti

Roman house with mosaics of dancing putti.

Sponda orientale del porto

Eastern quay of the ancient Roman port.

Museo Civico del Patriarcato🏛 museum

Civic museum on the history of the Patriarchate of Aquileia.

Monumento ai Militi Ignoti

Monument to the unknown soldiers.

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

Church building in Aquileia, Italy, an important early Christian basilica.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale🏛 museum

National archaeological museum with finds from Aquileia.

Monumento alla Resistenza

Resistance memorial monument.

Pinacoteca Civica

Civic art gallery with paintings from various periods.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Aquileia historically significant?

It was one of the largest cities of the Roman Empire and an important port.

What is the main attraction of the Basilica?

The floor is covered with the largest early Christian mosaic in Western Europe.

Can the old Roman port be seen?

Yes, the remains of the river port are freely accessible.

How far is Aquileia from the sea?

Today about 10 kilometers, near the resort town of Grado.

Is there an archaeological museum?

Yes, the National Museum displays impressive statues, glass, and jewelry.

Archaeological Area of Aquileia: where is it located?

Archaeological Area of Aquileia is located in Italy.

Archaeological Area of Aquileia: what is there to see?

Highlights include Museo Paleocristiano, Domus delle bestie ferite, Domus dei putti danzanti.

Archaeological Area of Aquileia: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Archaeological Area of Aquileia: why is it worth visiting?

Aquileia, founded in 181 BC as a Roman military colony, grew into one of the largest and most prosperous cities of the Roman Empire.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →

Archaeological Area of Aquileia

Best time to visit & climate