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Aosta: The Rome of the Alps
Aosta, the capital of Val d'Aosta, was founded by the Roman emperor
Augustus in 25 B.C.. The small, picturesque town is laid out in a grid
and no cars are allowed into the city center, making it the perfect
place for a relaxing walk. As you stroll along the streets of Aosta, you may see
some remains of public baths and municipal structures, but most of the
Roman ruins are in the northeastern section of town.
The Arco d'Augusto
(Arch of Augustus) is between the Porta Pretoria, which was the main
entrance to the city in Roman times, and the bridge over the Buthier
River. Further on is the well-preserved theater, an example of late
Roman provincial architecture, where performances are still held. Nearby
is the main cathedral, which has a neoclassical exterior and a Gothic
interior with beautiful wooden choir stalls.
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