Ancient Rome gastronomic experience

Experience the Flavors of Ancient Rome in Spain’s Region of Murcia

Imagine walking through the streets of Cartagena, Spain, and feeling as if you’ve stepped into a Roman marketplace. For just $90 per person, this Ancient Rome Gastronomic Experience — Wine Tasting offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and flavor. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit the Casa de la Fortuna, explore its ruins or admire them from outside if closed, and participate in a wine and food tasting that transports you back 2000 years. The tour is led by passionate guides who make history feel alive, and the tasting features wines meticulously recreated through scientific research—a true treat for food and wine lovers alike.

What we love most is the attention to detail: the chance to don Roman costumes for photos and the opportunity to savor authentic, historically inspired foods and wines. Plus, the visit to Cartago Mundi, a charming cultural space and boutique, adds a fun shopping element. We also appreciate that the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

A possible consideration is the limited opening hours of the Casa de la Fortuna, which could mean an outside view if it’s closed. Also, at $90, this experience isn’t the cheapest activity in town, but the quality of the historical interpretation and tasting makes it well worth the price.

This tour suits anyone curious about ancient Roman history, wine enthusiasts eager to taste recreations based on archaeological studies, or travelers looking for a unique, hands-on cultural experience. Families, history buffs, and foodies alike will find something memorable here.

Key Points

Authentic Roman Experience: Taste wines and foods recreated from archaeological findings, offering a genuine glimpse into Roman culinary traditions.
Cultural Exploration: Visit the Roman house Casa de la Fortuna, enjoying the ancient ruins of Cartagena.
Inclusive & Fun: Roman costumes and souvenirs add a playful element, making it perfect for photos and family groups.
Expert-Led Tour: Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, ensuring a lively and informative experience.
Flexible & Convenient: With a duration of just 2.5 hours, it fits well into a day of sightseeing.
Value for Price: Includes two Roman-style wines and snacks, along with cultural insights, making it feel like a comprehensive mini-journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Roman Gastronomic Tour

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience isn’t just about tasting wines; it’s about stepping into history through the senses. The tour starts at Mare Nostrum, a scenic starting point that sets a maritime tone. From there, the journey takes you to Casa de la Fortuna, a Roman house in Cartagena, where a guided 30-minute tour reveals the architecture and layout of Roman domestic life. If the house is closed on your visit—something that can happen—you’ll still get an outside viewing and a good dose of storytelling from your guide.

The highlight for many is the visit to Cartago Mundi, a cultural space and boutique close to the port. Here, you’ll sample two Roman-style wines paired with snacks prepared using traditional recipes. The fact that the wines are the product of scientific studies of archaeological remains makes the tasting both fascinating and educational. Plus, the option of non-alcoholic drinks ensures everyone can participate comfortably.

A fun feature is the Roman costumes provided, which help you fully embrace the experience for photos or just a good laugh. It’s a charming detail that adds a layer of authenticity and makes the tour suitable for families or groups wanting memorable pictures.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Mare Nostrum: This meeting point is easy to find and marked by guides with white polos and blue lanyards, ensuring you’re in good hands right from the beginning.

Casa de la Fortuna: The guided visit lasts about 30 minutes. You’ll walk through the ancient rooms and imagine what life was like for Roman inhabitants. Even if the interior isn’t accessible, the outside view combined with expert commentary makes it worthwhile.

Cartago Mundi: This is where the tasting happens. Over an hour, you’ll sample two Roman wines with snacks reminiscent of high Imperial recipes. The experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the culinary techniques of ancient Rome.

End back at Mare Nostrum: The tour wraps up where it started, leaving you with a new appreciation for Roman history, culture, and cuisine.

What We Appreciated

The fact that the guides are well-trained and enthusiastic makes a big difference. As Fiona mentioned in her review, the guide’s dedication and passion shine through, making the experience both engaging and informative.

The tasting itself is a highlight—wines made from archaeological studies add a layer of authenticity many similar tours lack. The pairing with Roman-style snacks enhances the flavor profile and provides a fuller picture of what Roman elites might have enjoyed.

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Practical Details and Tips

Duration: 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing.
Price: At $90, this is an investment in a unique, immersive experience—not just a tasting. Think of it as a cultural excursion with tasty rewards.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly, with unisex bathrooms, so travelers with mobility needs are accommodated.
Language: Tours are offered in English and Spanish, catering to diverse visitors.
Booking & Cancellations: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility—great for unpredictable travel plans.

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Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re a history buff eager to combine archaeology with gastronomy, this tour offers an engaging way to deepen your understanding of Roman culture. Foodies and wine lovers will enjoy trying scientifically recreated wines, which aren’t often available elsewhere. Families or groups seeking a playful, photo-ready experience will find the Roman costumes and ruins a fun plus.

It’s ideal for travelers with a curiosity for ancient civilizations who want a hands-on, sensory experience rather than just reading plaques at a museum. If you’re looking for a relaxing, educational break from typical sightseeing, this tour hits the spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those interested in history, archaeology, or wine, this experience offers real value. The combination of visiting ancient Roman ruins and tasting wines based on archaeological evidence connects the past with the present in a meaningful way. The guides’ enthusiasm and the attention to detail make it a memorable experience worth the modest investment.

While it’s not a large-scale or flashy tour, its charm lies in the authenticity and fun of dressing up as a Roman and tasting wines crafted from scientific reconstructions. It’s perfect for those who want to add a cultural highlight to their Cartagena trip without spending an entire day.

To sum it up, if your travels bring you to Murcia’s coast and you’re ready for a mix of history, culture, and flavor, this tour is a delightful way to feel the spirit of Rome without leaving Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the venue facilities include unisex bathrooms.

What languages are available for the tour?
Tours are offered in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

How long does the wine and food tasting last?
The tasting at Cartago Mundi lasts about one hour, including sampling two Roman-style wines and snacks.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning your trip.

Are there options for non-drinkers or children?
Absolutely. Non-alcoholic options like soft drinks, mosto, martini, or beer are available, making it inclusive for all participants.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine, but donning a Roman costume is encouraged if you want to get into the spirit and take fun photos.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour begins at Mare Nostrum, where guides are identifiable by their white polo/jacket with a wave logo and blue lanyards.

Is this tour educational?
Yes, guides share insights into Roman history and culinary techniques based on archaeological research, making it both fun and informative.