The forensic cryptoporticus is certainly the most fascinating place of Augusta Pretoria. It is situated in the northern part of the Roman Forum complex, where during roman times there was the holy area with two twin temples and actually located in front of the Cathedral entrance.
The Aosta cryptoporticus is divided into three parts with a horseshoe layout and internally split into two barrels vaults with a central sequence of lowered arches. Its main purpose was to create a structure for containing and levelling the ground that must have been slightly sloping from north to south in that part of the town, creating a difference of level between the holy area and the adjacent forensic plateau.
The galleries are lit by a series of splayed windows that allow an adequate air flow; over the course of the year, the internal temperature of the cryptoporticus remains constant.
During Middle Ages the Cryptoporticus was transformed into cellars and became widely referred to as the “Marché des Romains”.
The cryptoporticus is not accessible to visitors with disabilities
Discover here the guided tour of the Roman and Medieval town of Aosta
Opening hours
April to September: daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
October to March: daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed on December 25th and January 1st
Prices
Ticket, valid for six months from the date of issue, allowing one entry in each of the following sites:
• Roman theatre
• Forensic cryptoporticus
• Early Christian Basilica of San Lorenzo
• Regional Archaeological Museum
• MegaMuseo – Megalithic area of Aosta
Full price: € 10,00
Reduced entrance-fee: € 8,00 (visitors with a qualified tour guide, groups of at least 25 paying visitors)
Reduced entrance -fee: € 3.00 for all young people aged 19 to 25
Free: Free: young people 0-18 years old; school groups, visitors with disabilities and their companions, teachers accompanying school groups)