Whether you are a history junkie or just have a thing for ruins and disaster, this site is for you. Just outside of Fiumicino, Ostia Antica is a masterpiece of tales once told.

It is the harbour city of Ancient Rome, and used to sit at the mouth of the river Tiber. Now, it is over 2 miles away from the sea.

The frescoes and mosaics throughout the site are amazing and most have been well preserved.

You may be asking… why are a bunch of old rocks and broken down buildings so impressive? They just get me.

There is something magnificent about archeological ruins. Yes, for the obvious reason that people once lived here and history is powerful to engage with.

But more than that, I find so much beauty and healing in these places.

What were once strong-holds for an entire population are broken, ruined, and filled with weeds and grass.

But if you look closely enough, you will notice something more. They are not just weeds and grass. It is life growing through the cracks!

As someone who has felt broken for so many years, it heals me to know that life can still spring forth from the ruins and disaster that sometimes appear. There can still be beauty even after walls have been knocked down and we have been filled top to bottom with change.

Even in destruction and pain, we have the ability to hold so much beauty within the vessels of our bodies and souls. Whether exploring Ostia Antica or your own heart, remember that you are the life-giving organ for change and healing.

Share the magnificence in your fault lines. You have the power to move earth and sea.

XO – Heather

P.S. Here is my recommendation for where to stay while exploring the outer cities of Rome.