Roman Ruins of Italica Tour

Located just a few minutes north of Seville, in the village of Santiponce lies one of the most important and largest Roman ruins in the whole of Spain. The Roman city of Italica demonstrates wonderful examples of Roman architecture, mosaic work, and city layouts. Italica was founded in the year 206BC by General Publius Cornelius Scipio as a place of settlement for soldiers wounded in the battle of Illipa. This Roman settlement is the oldest of Spain and served as an important military outpost. The name Italica gave reference to the first settlers who came from Italy. Marcus Ulpius Trajan was born in the city in 53AD as was his successor, Aelius Hadrian in 76AD. The massive amphitheater, one of the largest in the Roman Empire, had a seating capacity of 25.000. You can wander through the tunnels where gladiators would once have walked and stand in the den which would have housed the lions. In the center of the arena is a great pit which would have been covered by a wooden structure. This was used for gladiator and wild animal sports. Throughout the trip, the well-experienced guide will tell stories and facts about the fascinating ruins of Italica. Before we conclude the trip by arriving back in Seville, we will visit San Rafael in La Pañoleta Winery. You will be given the opportunity to try a glass of typical wine from the area which possesses its own distinct flavor.