Explore the Forensic Cryptportico of Aosta

Where is the Forensic Cryptportico located in Aosta?

The Forensic Cryptportico is located in the heart of Aosta's historic center, just a few steps from the Cathedral and Piazza Giovanni XXIII. The entrance is immersed in a quiet garden, shaded by a large lime tree planted by the Egyptologist Ernesto Schiaparelli in the early 1900s. This location makes it easily accessible during a stroll among the Roman monuments of the city.

What is the Forensic Cryptportico of Aosta?

The Forensic Cryptportico is an underground gallery built in Roman times, dating back to the 1st century BC. It is a unique monument because it was not just a simple passageway, but a structure that supported the city's forum, the main square where public life took place. Its shape is that of a double covered corridor, arranged in a U-shape, with large arches and vaults that still convey a sense of grandeur today.

What was the function of the Roman Cryptportico of Aosta?

The Forensic Cryptportico primarily served as support for the structures above. It was an ingenious architectural system that allowed for the creation of a flat surface in a slightly sloping area. In addition to its practical function, the gallery also provided a sheltered space from the sun and cold, useful for the movements of Roman citizens and perhaps even for some public or representative activities.

How does the Forensic Cryptportico of Aosta appear today?

Today, visitors can descend into the Cryptportico and walk through its dimly lit corridors. The stone vaults, regular arches, and cool atmosphere make it a fascinating and evocative place. Modern lighting enhances the architectural details, allowing one to imagine the grandeur of Roman Aosta, called Augusta Praetoria.

Why is the Forensic Cryptportico important for the history of Aosta?

The Cryptportico is one of the best-preserved monuments of the Roman city of Aosta. Its presence testifies to the skill of Roman engineers and the importance of the city as a strategic point in the Alps. Visiting the Cryptportico means immersing oneself in an authentic fragment of Roman public life and better understanding the ancient urban layout of Augusta Praetoria.

What other Roman monuments are located near the Cryptportico of Aosta?

Just a few minutes' walk from the Forensic Cryptportico, you can visit the Porta Praetoria, the Arch of Augustus, and the Roman Theatre. All these monuments are located within the historic center and can be discovered in a half-day stroll. The proximity of these sites makes Aosta an ideal city for those wishing to explore an entire Roman urban system still well visible.

How do you access the Forensic Cryptportico of Aosta?

The entrance is located next to the Cathedral of Aosta, in an area easily reachable on foot. Nearby, there are parking lots, restaurants, and bars, useful for those who want to plan a longer visit. The entrance ticket is often included in cumulative formulas that allow visiting other archaeological sites in the city.

What atmosphere can be felt in the garden above the Cryptportico?

The garden that overlooks the Cryptportico is a small green corner in the city center. Here, the lime tree planted by Ernesto Schiaparelli, one of Italy's most famous Egyptologists, still grows. Sitting in the shade of this tree, before or after the visit, is a pleasant way to enjoy a moment of pause and reflect on the historical stratification of Aosta.

How to get to the Forensic Cryptportico of Aosta and where to park?

Those arriving by car in Aosta should know that the Cryptportico is located within the pedestrian zone. Therefore, it is not possible to park directly next to the monument, but there are several solutions nearby. One of the most convenient parking lots is in Piazza della Repubblica, about 5 minutes on foot, or the underground parking in Via Firstenberg, near the Arch of Augustus. Alternatively, you can use the large parking lot in Piazza Plouves, also just a few minutes from the historic center. Those who prefer public transport can arrive in Aosta by train or bus: the station is about 10 minutes on foot from the Cryptportico and allows for easy access without the need for a car.