Rome: Roma World, the park to live a day as an Ancient Roman

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Roman times firsthand without trekking through ruins or booking a costly tour, Roma World promises a fun-filled day that brings the ancient world to life. This theme park, set on five hectares of Roman countryside, offers everything from gladiator battles to chariot races, plus the chance to walk through an authentic Roman camp. It’s an interactive spot perfect for families, history lovers, or anyone curious about how Romans really lived—albeit with a few modern conveniences sprinkled in.

What we love about Roma World is its vivid recreations—especially the gladiator shows and the film set of Ben Hur (2016). There’s something special about seeing a real Roman market or listening to the sounds of farm animals that makes it feel more genuine than a typical museum visit. That said, it’s not without its quirks. The experience can get quite crowded, especially with groups of kids, and transportation hassle might be a concern if you’re not staying nearby.

This experience best suits those who enjoy interactive history, family outings, or unique theme park adventures that combine entertainment with education. If you’re after a relaxed, less crowded taste of ancient Rome or seeking a more in-depth historical tour, you might want to weigh this against other options. But for a lively, hands-on day out, Roma World has plenty to offer.

Key Points

• Authentic Roman recreation on a sprawling five-hectare site
• Live gladiator shows and historic film set visits
• Family-friendly activities like archery and farm tours
• Variety of experiences including bird of prey displays and Roman markets
• Good value for money, especially when combined with food options
• Transportation and crowd issues may impact the overall experience

A Detailed Look at Roma World

The Setting and Atmosphere

Roma World is designed to resemble a real Roman camp, giving visitors a sense of stepping back 2,000 years. The site’s layout is quite expansive, and naturally, it feels like wandering through a Roman countryside—complete with cork groves, farm animals, and rustic wooden structures. The overall vibe is lively, with the sounds of birds, farm animals, and excited visitors creating an immersive atmosphere. However, some reviewers mention that getting around can be tricky, especially with large crowds, and transportation options are limited before 6:30 pm.

Gladiator Shows and Combat Demonstrations

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the Gladiator Arena, where skilled performers reenact battles with swords and shields. The shows are energetic, and the gladiators often engage the crowd, making it a captivating spectacle. We appreciated their enthusiasm and the effort to educate as well as entertain, with tips on how to handle a sword during the demonstrations.

One reviewer noted, “Watching the gladiators do battle was impressive, but the experience was overshadowed by the noise and crowds of children shouting and running around.” This suggests that if you’re seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience, Roma World might not be ideal during peak times.

The Ben Hur Film Set

A unique feature here is the chance to see the original Ben Hur film set from 2016. Walking through this set gives a tangible sense of what Roman chariot races might have looked like, and it offers fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a genuine piece of movie history brought into the mix, which adds a special touch for film buffs.

Roman Markets and Culinary Sampling

Strolling through the recreated Roman markets offers a lively atmosphere where you can browse stalls selling Roman-style goods and souvenirs. For those interested in Roman cuisine, there’s a Taberna where you can sample dishes inspired by ancient recipes—though you’ll need to purchase an additional ticket for food.

Birds of Prey and the Magical Wood

The Birds of Prey Arena is another highlight, where majestic eagles and hawks perform daring displays. Watching these birds soaring and diving is mesmerizing, adding a natural element to the Roman theme. As the day progresses, visitors can enjoy Roman Nights in the Magical Wood, lit with beautiful lights that cast a fairy-tale glow—a particularly stunning experience after sunset.

Activities and Experiences

• Archery Shooting: Perfect for those who want a hands-on activity that ties into Roman hunting and military skills.
• Educational Farm: Offers a chance for kids and adults alike to learn about farm animals and ancient farming techniques.
• Botanical Tour: A brief walk through the plant life, enhancing the sense of authentic Roman countryside.

Practical Considerations and Value

Cost and Inclusions

The standard ticket provides access to the film set, shows, bird of prey displays, and the farm. However, food and drinks are not included, so if you want to dine Roman-style, you’ll need to purchase an upgraded ticket. This can seem a bit pricey, but considering the variety of activities and the chance to see actual film sets, many visitors find the overall value good—if you’re aware of the extra costs.

Potential Drawbacks

One common criticism, echoed in a review, is the overcrowding and noise, especially with children, which can detract from the experience if you’re looking for a peaceful stroll. Plus, transportation is limited before 6:30 pm, and the park is somewhat remote, which could complicate plans if you’re relying on public transit or trying to leave early.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since you may be walking quite a bit across uneven terrain. A sun hat and sunscreen are advisable, especially in summer. The site is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, as some activities involve standing or walking for extended periods.

Who Should Visit Roma World?

This experience is best suited for families with children, who will enjoy the shows and hands-on activities, and for history enthusiasts eager to see Roman life recreated authentically. It’s also good for film buffs interested in Ben Hur, or those wanting a day of entertainment that combines education and fun.

If you’re after a more relaxed, crowd-free experience, or want to explore Rome’s historical sites in-depth, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s a lively, energetic environment, so if you prefer quiet museums or guided tours, consider other options.

Final Thoughts

Roma World offers an affordable, engaging way to glimpse what life was like in ancient Rome, especially if you enjoy interactive experiences and live demonstrations. The chance to see gladiators, chariot races, and old Roman marketplaces in a park setting provides a memorable day out that appeals to a broad audience.

While it can get crowded and transportation may be a challenge, the variety of activities, the authentic film set, and spectacular bird shows make it a value-packed option for those interested in history, film, or family adventures. Expect a lively atmosphere, plenty of photo opportunities, and a chance to connect with Roman culture in an informal, fun environment.

FAQ

Is transportation available to Roma World?
Transportation is limited before 6:30 pm, so plan accordingly. You might find it easier to arrive via car or organized transfer, as public options could be limited.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included in the standard ticket. You can buy a combo ticket that grants access to Roman cuisine, which is recommended if you plan to eat on-site.

Can children participate in activities?
Yes, children are welcome and will particularly enjoy the shows, markets, and farm activities. However, some reviews mention that crowds of children can make the experience noisy.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The site involves walking on uneven terrain, and activities may require standing or moving around extensively.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Dress in casual, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

Can I stay overnight?
Overnight stays are possible if you ask in person about tent availability, but this is not included in the standard package.

In short, Roma World is a lively, engaging tribute to Roman life that offers excellent value and fun for families and history fans alike. It’s a place where you can touch history, watch live shows, and explore a Roman film set—all in one day. Just be ready for crowds and a bit of logistical planning!