Welcome to a journey back in time, Lykkers! Today, let's explore one of the most impressive achievements of ancient Rome: its road network.

These roads weren't just paths between cities—they were masterpieces of planning and construction that continue to influence modern routes. Let's take a closer look at how these remarkable roads were built and where their traces still remain today.

Building the Roads That Shaped a Continent

Purpose and Early Use

The initial purpose of these roads was rooted in strategic movement. Well-structured routes allowed for rapid and secure passage between key locations, enabling quick deployment and efficient organization throughout the territories.

These roads later became vital channels for trade, communication, and travel.

Professional Planning and Surveying

Construction began with careful planning. Skilled professionals—engineers and land surveyors—chose the best path, often the shortest and most direct route. When natural barriers such as mountains or rivers stood in the way, bridges or tunnels were skillfully created, showcasing advanced problem-solving and engineering capabilities.

Structure and Layers

Once the route was chosen, builders marked the path by digging a trench and raising borders on either side. The trench was filled with layers, each designed to serve a specific function.

- The statumen formed the base layer and was made of large stones placed tightly together for strength.

- Above this came the rudus, a mix of broken stones and binding material. This layer supported drainage and added structural integrity.

- The next layer, nucleus, was a blend of sand and gravel that added further stability and allowed moisture to pass through.

- The surface layer, known as pavimentum, was made of specially shaped stone slabs that created a flat and durable walking or cart path.

Functional Features

To ensure clarity and consistency across the network, stone markers were added:

- Distance stones marked the mileage between destinations.

- Boundary stones identified administrative divisions across different areas.

These roads were built with long-term use in mind. The layered construction and drainage system meant they could withstand extensive use and harsh weather.

Where to See Roman Roads Today

Via Gemina in Aquileia

In the town of Aquileia, located in the modern Friuli region, parts of the Via Gemina are still visible. This route once linked Aquileia to Emona, the ancient city now known as Ljubljana. These remains highlight the connectivity between key regions across Europe.

Via Appia in Rome

One of the most famous Roman roads, the Via Appia connected Rome with Brindisi in the southeast. A well-preserved section of this road can still be visited in the Appian Way Regional Park in southern Rome. It remains one of the largest urban parks in Europe and gives visitors a vivid glimpse into ancient road design.

Via Traiana in Egnazia

The Via Traiana ran parallel to the Via Appia in southern Italy, linking Benevento with Brindisi. A stretch of this road can still be found in Egnazia, near today's Fasano in Puglia. It served as an essential pathway across southeastern Italy and reflects the regional reach of the Roman network.

The Roads That Endure

Lykkers, the roads of ancient Rome were not simply a means of travel—they were long-lasting achievements of engineering and design. Their influence is still visible today in modern infrastructure across Europe and beyond. These roads were created with care, vision, and expertise, reflecting a culture that valued structure and connectivity.

Whether you're strolling through ancient ruins or driving on a modern highway that follows an old path, you're experiencing the legacy of this incredible road system. Next time you travel a well-paved route, remember that the foundation might just stretch all the way back to ancient Rome.