Classical Archaeology 3. Life Sciences Assignment.

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Classical Archeology 3
7. Ostia’s increasing importance for Rome; its location, description, and function.
The ancient Roman port city of Ostia is located at the mouth of river Tiber which is approximately 28 kilometers west of Rome. Ostia is believed to have been founded by the fourth king of Rome, Ancus Marcus, who ruled during the late 7th century B.C. The name Ostia originates from Latin which means ‘mouth’ the site is located near the mouth of river Tiber. The river was used by the dwellers of the city for transport and as a harbor. The city was one of the Roman Empire’s most important port and an epicenter of trade in the whole Mediterranean region. In the Roman republic, Ostia was used as a naval base (Coarelli, 269). However, after the reign of Emperor Claudius, the purpose of the city changed, whereby where small ships and boats sail to Rome (Mitternacht, 562). After the fall of the Roman Empire, Ostia was abandoned. Currently, there few ruins that can be seen. Archaeologists argue that the mud that buried Ostia through time protected it from medieval peasants and stone-scavengers. 
The location of Ostia remains essential today for Archeological purpose. Many researchers visit the site to study the ancient Roman Empire’s culture. Furthermore, the site has been converted into a museum which attracts tourists around the world. One of the fascinating features of Ostia is the statuary (Coarelli, 277). Some of the iconic statutes like kissing cupids, tangled wrestlers and playful God. Most of these statutes are traced in the 2nd and 3rd-century Roman pieces which are much inspired by Greek mythology. Furthermore, the museum houses beautiful baths meant for recreation purposes (Mitternacht, 567). Ostia remains as one of the most important sites of ancient Rome and a tourist destination for many people around the world.
3. The Ara Maxima; wherein Rome located; why its location is significant 
Ara Maxima is one of the rituals alter sites that Hercules helped to establish in the Roman Empire rituals. It is also referred to as the Great Altar of Unconquered Hercules.  Ara Maxima is the oldest cult-centre of Ancient Rome. According to ancient Rome researchers, the altar was established during the reign of King Evander after Hercules had slain the legendary monster, Cacus. The festival day was held on August 12 every year, and Potitii and Pinarii families supervised it. Archaeological scientists trace Aria Maxima in the Forum Barium of the ancient Roman Empire. However, during the Great Fire of Rome 65 C.E., the original location of Aria Maxima cite was destroyed. Later Ara alter was rebuilt and it stood until the fourth century. During 312 BC, the Roman state took over the altar and women were restricted from participating in the cult. 
Currently, the remains of Ara Maxima are found in the Crypt and near Santa Maria church in Cosmedin. The architectural design behind the construction of the altar is not known. The site is essential today in helping religion, cultural and historical researchers in the understanding of the ancient Roman religion (Coarelli, 290). Furthermore, the altar allows...