4 SPOTS REMAINING
with Darius Arya
May 12 to 16 2025 with arrival on May 11
”I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.
Augustus
Rome’s vast urban sprawl is one of the amazing facets of the Eternal City. In this five-day we peel back the layers and immerse ourselves in Ancient Rome as to uncover a foundation blend of strategy, intelligence, economy and brute force. We will also explore sites outside of the Aurelian walls including Ostia Antica and Hadrian’s Villa as well as Rome’s lesser known museums and sites, and meet with contemporary experts that live and breathe Ancient Rome daily.
Arrival May 11
Arrival in Rome at your leisure. At 5:30 pm, we’ll meet for a pleasant stroll through the centro storico, Darius’ backyard, for some insights into the city’s earliest urban development. We’ll then dine at Darius’ favorite Roman osteria where he will discuss the itinerary and share some favorite places to eat and shop.
Meals Included: Group dinner
May 15: Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is a microcosm of imperial Rome and no city better reflects the urban layout of Rome than here. Darius, who for several years excavated in the archaeological park, shares an intimate look at Rome’s major port city and its man-made harbor, Portus.
Meals Included: Light lunch
Afternoon and evening free
May 16: Palimpsest Rome
Starting at the Markets of Trajan, we’ll explore layers of urban development as we look at private palazzi, key architectural spaces and integral paths from the imperial period through to the Renaissance. With new museums and sites, this will be an opportunity to delve into the newest archaeology of the city. At 7pm, we will meet up for our goodbye dinner.
Afternoon free
Meals Included: Group dinner
ABOUT YOUR HOST
Dr Darius Arya Ph.D.
Darius Arya is an archaeologist, scholar, lecturer and television host who has been immersed in Ancient Rome since childhood. He has a BA in Classical History from the University of Pennsylvania and a PhD in Roman Archaeology from the University of Texas (Austin).
As a practicing field archaeologist, he has supervised excavations in the Rome Forum, Roman suburbs and Ostia Antica. Darius is the founder of Ancient Rome Live, a online educational platform showcasing history and pioneering archaeology, and director of the of 501(c)3 non-profit American Institute for Roman Culture. Immersive content is his passion and has led him to host more than 20 international documentaries for History Channel, PBS, Wondrium, RAI5, National Geographic and Discovery, as well YouTube channel @DariusArya.
Fellow of the UNC
Global Research Institute
Fellow of The Explorers Club
Fellow American Academy (2002)
Fulbright Scholar
Inclusions
- All meals and beverages, as detailed in the itinerary
- All guided touring, admission fees, site transport and activities, as detailed in the itinerary
- Expert guides and drivers, including your host and the 24/7 support of Ancient Rome Live’s partners on the ground
- Expert travel team to plan all excursion details
- Custom trip planning for add-on travel is available; please inquire
- Participants can opt to receive educational credit for an added cost of $75 per person
Exclusions
- Hotel Accommodations
- Meals not specified and premium or alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities and expenses
- All gratuities
- Trip insurance
Itineraries may be subject to change should there be any unforeseen events or closures. We do not accept liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control. We will be flexible and take advantage of our deep knowledge and network to provide the best possible experience. Uncompleted portions of the itinerary are not cause for refund.
$2800 USD
per person
Payment: 50% non-refundable deposit.
Balance due in full on January 31, 2025.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many participants will there be?
Up to 14 guests, and you’ll meet them prior to your arrival in a group Google Meet. In the months leading up to the trip, Darius will host a 30-45 minute group chats to introduce everyone, discuss the week and field questions.
The visits are in the mornings. What is there to do in the afternoon?
Site visits are programmed each day between 8:30 and 2pm, giving you the afternoon to explore. Darius will be walking around and is always happy to have you join him. Evenings (Monday through Thursday) are yours to enjoy and if you want a little help, we have suggestions for more sites and restaurants.
Are there any terms I should be aware of?
Yes, all Terms and Conditions can be found here.
