Lecture: A Journey Along the Ancient Appian Way

The Appian Way (often called Regina Viarum or “Queen of the Long Roads”) was constructed starting in 312 BC and eventually extended some 360 miles from Rome to Brundisium (now the city of Brindisi in the heel of Italy).  The mostly paved road, originally built for warfare, became an economic, social, and religious thoroughfare opening southern Italy and creating a gateway for Roman expansion throughout the Mediterranean.  From ancient Rome through the Middle Ages and even up to World War II, the road played a pivotal role in shaping European history.  In this presentation, Dr. Robbins will share with you the wondrous sites he explored on a trip he took in March 2025 from Rome to Brindisi along the Appian Way.

Dr. Gary Robbins is a Professor Emeritus in the Departments of Natural Resources and the Environment and Earth Sciences at the University of Connecticut in Storrs.  He taught at the university for 37 years before retiring.  While there, he taught a study abroad course in Rome Italy for some 10 years and conducted research with the University of Roma Tre. He has a keen interest in the history of Rome and ancient Roman architecture and technology.

Note: Unless specifically noted as being streamed or recorded, the lectures in the lecture series hosted by the Dante Society of Westerly are live events only and are not recorded. They are neither streamed online nor available afterwards as recordings.

Lectures are free and open to the public.