Visiting Italica, Spain: A Journey into Ancient Rome – Travel Dudes

When you think of Spain, you likely picture flamenco dancers, sunny plazas, and mouthwatering tapas. But just outside the vibrant city of Seville lies a hidden gem that transports you back to ancient Rome: Italica. This archaeological treasure, founded in 206 BC, offers a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s Roman heritage and is a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Visiting Italica offers visitors an enchanting glimpse into Spain’s fascinating Roman past, located just 9 km from Seville in the heart of Andalusia.

The region of Andalusia was profoundly influenced by the Romans during their occupation from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. The Romans established important cities like Italica and Córdoba, which became hubs of Roman culture, governance, and trade, and Roman laws and administrative systems shaped the region’s governance.

They also introduced architectural advancements such as aqueducts, amphitheaters, and roads, many of which still remain. The Romans spread Latin throughout the region, which evolved into modern Spanish. The influences left by the Roman occupation of Andusia permeate the area and persist to the present day. 

Here’s what to expect when visiting Italica in Southern Spain.

Related read: Southern Spain: Birthplace of 3 Roman Emperors

Quick Facts About Italica

Before we get started, here are a few quick facts to know before visiting Italica:

• Birthplace of Ancient Emperors: Italica isn’t just any Roman settlement—it’s the birthplace of two great emperors, Trajan and Hadrian. Trajan’s reign marked the height of Rome’s territorial expansion, while Hadrian is celebrated for consolidating the empire and building iconic structures like Hadrian’s Wall in Britain.
• Amphitheater of Italica: The city boasts an amphitheater that is one of the largest in the Roman Empire, once hosting 25,000 spectators.
• Well-Preserved Ruins: Wandering through Italica, you’ll be amazed at how well-preserved its ruins are. From the towering amphitheatre to the intricate mosaics, every corner tells a story of Roman innovation and artistry. Italica’s amphitheatre is one of the largest in the Roman Empire, capable of holding up to 25,000 spectators—an impressive feat for a settlement of its size.
• Proximity: It’s just a short 15-20 minute drive from Seville.
• Tour Options: Guided tours, including private options, provide in-depth insights into its historical significance.

Highlights of Your Visit

The Amphitheatre

As you step into Italica’s amphitheatre, it’s impossible not to feel awe. This colossal arena once hosted gladiator battles and public spectacles that thrilled thousands of spectators.

It may also look familiar to fans of Game of Thrones, as it served as a filming location for key scenes in the series.

Exquisite Mosaics

Italica’s mosaics are a testament to the craftsmanship of its Roman residents. The “Bird Mosaic,” with its vivid depictions of birds and foliage, is a particular highlight. Each mosaic offers a window into Roman life, from mythological themes to daily activities.

Residential Ruins

Stroll through the remains of Roman villas (domus), where you can still see the layout of rooms, courtyards, and even remnants of ancient baths. These ruins give you a sense of how Italica’s wealthy citizens once lived, blending luxury with practicality.

Getting to Seville, Spain: Your Italica Jumping Off Point

Italica is just 10 km northwest of Seville, making it an easy half-day trip. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bus (routes from Seville to Santiponce, the modern town near Italica, are readily available). Guided tours often include transportation and are a great way to dive deeper into the site’s history.

Here’s how to get to Seville:

• Air: You can fly into Seville’s San Pablo Airport (SVQ), which has direct connections from major European cities.
• Car rentals: Driving offers flexibility for exploring the Andalusian region.
• Trains: High-speed AVE trains from Madrid take about 2.5 hours. Other trains connect Seville to cities like Barcelona and Málaga.
• Buses: Long-distance buses are a budget-friendly option with routes across Spain.
  • ALSA: One of the largest operators, connecting Seville with Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities.
  • Socibus: Offers direct services between Seville and cities like Madrid and Córdoba.
  • Avanza: Provides routes mainly from the east coast to Seville.
  • Damas: Focuses on routes within Andalusia, including Seville.
  • Interbus: Another option connecting Seville to other Spanish regions.

Join a Private Tour of Italica

Join this exclusive, guided tour for a personalized journey through this ancient city.

Accompanied by your private guide, you’ll learn all about Italica’s magnificent history as you admire the stunning ruins, including its well-preserved amphitheater, which once held 25,000 spectators. Intricate mosaics that adorned the homes of the city’s elite are well-preserved and gorgeous to behold.

Once you’ve fully experienced Italica you should head to Lebrija Palace in central Seville. This magnificent 16th-century house has been repurposed as a museum. It is filled with archeological treasures from Italica and offers a glimpse into the blended history of the Roman Empire and Andalusia—an unmissable experience for history lovers and the perfect way to round out your understanding of this phenomenal archeological site.

Price: €589 (for two people)

Duration: 3 hours

Included:

• Private 5-star tour guide
• Transportation between sites
• Hotel pick up
• Entrance tickets to Italica
• Entrance tickets to Lebrija Palace
• Tour of Italica
• Italica Amphitheatre
• Filming locations of Game of Thrones
• Tour of Lebrija Palace
• Italica mosaics and artefacts

Book this tour!

Practical Tips for Visiting Italica

• Opening hours and entry: Italica is open year-round, with seasonal hours to accommodate weather conditions. Entry is free for EU citizens with valid ID, while others pay a small fee (usually under €3). Always check the schedule in advance, as hours may vary.

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring Italica, as temperatures are mild. If you’re visiting in summer, come early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the scorching heat.
• Pack for the outdoors: Italica is an open-air site with limited shade. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The terrain can be uneven, especially around the amphitheatre and residential ruins.

Unforgettable Italica

Italica, the birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, stands as a remarkable testament to this Roman grandeur. Drastically expanded and designed by Hadrian, Italica showcases his ambitious urban vision. The city was built from the ground up, entirely unburdened by previous structures, allowing for creating a city that adhered to the highest architectural and ideological standards of the era—a true reflection of Roman innovation.

The ancient city of Italica boasts a remarkably well-preserved amphitheater, bathhouses, and intricate mosaics that evoke the magnificence of Roman life. A visit to Italica is complemented by a tour of Seville’s stunning and iconic Lebrija Palace, where artifacts from Italica are displayed alongside a remarkable art collection.

Visiting Italica is a dream for both nature and history enthusiasts alike, as this stunning site blends archeology with the beautiful region of Andalusia.