Aosta: The Rome of the Alps

Aosta: The Rome of the Alps

Aosta, the capital of Valle d'Aosta, was founded by the Roman emperor Augustus in 25 B.C.. The small, picturesque town is laid out in a grid and no cars are allowed into the city center, making it the perfect place for a relaxing walk. As you stroll along the streets of Aosta, you may see some remains of public baths and municipal structures, but most of the Roman ruins are in the northeastern section of town.

The Arco d'Augusto (Arch of Augustus) is between the Porta Pretoria, which was the main entrance to the city in Roman times, and the bridge over the Buthier River. Further on is the well-preserved theater, an example of late Roman provincial architecture, where performances are still held. Nearby is the main cathedral, which has a neoclassical exterior and a Gothic interior with beautiful wooden choir stalls.

The Foro Romano is almost completely in ruins but there is a colonnaded walkway (called the criptoportico) and a tower (Torre dei Balivi). Unfortunately, since Aosta has always been a crossroads for travelers, many of the ancient artifacts were looted during the Middle Ages.  

Courtesy of www.italiancookingandliving.com