Aquileia boasts an archaeological area of exceptional importance, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Founded in 181 BC in the agro gallorum, Aquileia was established as a bridgehead for the Roman conquest of the Danube regions and to defend the eastern borders while boosting the already thriving trade between the Eastern Mediterranean and the Transalpine countries.
Excavations have uncovered remains of the Roman forum and a basilica, a burial ground, mosaic floors and house foundations (Cossar and Cal sites), statues along the Via Sacra, marketplaces, city walls, a river port, a grand mausoleum, and much more.
The splendid Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, overlooking the historic Piazza Capitolo, was built on a 4th-century structure and expanded in later centuries (much of which was destroyed during barbarian invasions). Inside the church, visitors can admire the famous early Christian mosaics (4th century), which represent a cornerstone in the history of Italian art.
The majestic bell tower, constructed around the year 1000 as a watchtower, rises 73 meters high and not only enhances the solemn atmosphere but also offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Also of great importance are the 9th-century frescoes in the crypt. To learn about early Christian Aquileia, the Crypt of the Excavations is a must-see: it features stunning mosaics from the church built in the 4th century by Bishop Theodore atop the remains of a Roman villa.
Rain or shine, a visit to the National Archaeological Museum at Villa Cassis is well worth your time. It is considered one of the most important archaeological museums in Northern Italy, with artifacts exclusively from Aquileia and its surroundings. Particularly noteworthy are the collections of engraved gems, glassworks, amber, mosaic floors, and a rich array of inscriptions and stone carvings.
Also worth visiting is the Paleochristian Museum in the Monastero area (open Thursdays from 8:30 AM to 1:45 PM), which houses the largest collection of early Christian “tituli” in Greek and Latin—over 130 inscriptions—along with other early Christian and early medieval artifacts. From two large terraces, visitors can admire the rich mosaic floors from above.