Roman Ruins of Sagunto

A short drive up the coast from modern-day Valencia brings you to one of the most important ancient cities on the Iberian Peninsula. Called Arse by the Iberians, it was colonized by the Romans who named it Saguntum, and it is now known as Sagunto. Your guided tour focuses on the layers of history found amid the ruins and monuments. A Sagunto native and experienced guide leads the fascinating and informative visit of the hillside castle complex where Hannibal, the famed general of Carthage, waged an epic battle that sparked a war with Rome. The site also reveals vestiges of the original ancient settlement uncovered by archaeologists and the remains of a temple dedicated to the goddess Diana. On the lower slopes of the hill, explore the remains of the Roman-built theater and learn how the Romans cultivated grapes and produced wine in this region. Relax and recharge over a lunch with wine at a restaurant whose young chef features locally sourced ingredients in updated versions of traditional specialties. Following the meal, stroll with your guide around the medieval center of Sagunto. Sights here include the historic Jewish quarter, Gothic churches and a 13th-century convent, among others, as well as ongoing excavations of Roman-era structures.