About Aquincum
Once a grand city within the Roman Empire, Aquincum spread along the borders of what was then the Pannonia province during the Byzantine era. Visitors today seek out the ruins of the old city within the historic Obuda section of modern-day Budapest. The site is revered for its role in the “Meditations at Aquincum” book by Marcus Aurelius.
The ruins have been excavated and partially restored, so you can explore remains from as far back as 100 AD. Keep an eye out for mosaic floors, tombstones, courtyards, fountains and an amphitheatre.
Some portions of the site are recreated structures, including the dwelling of a typical Roman painter. Inside the Aquincum Museum, you’ll find a replica of a Roman bath and a hydra water organ from the 3rd century. There are also sculptures, stone sarcophagi, paintings and artefacts from daily life.
Getting there
Buses, trolleys and trams cover most of the historic district near the Aquincum ruins and you can use the Budapest bike-share program to get around. If you’re using the HEV suburban railway, get off at the Aquincum stop.