The vias stretch out from the Urbs Roma like arteries from a heart. To the south, Latina Via and Campania Via sweep across the countryside, flanked by cypress and olive trees. To the west, Aurelia Via and Triumphalis Via lead away, winding through open fields and periodically flanked by milestones. To the north, Faminia Via, Salaria Via and Nomentana Via traverse the rolling hills, their paths ensuring the safe passage of traders, soldiers and citizens alike. Finally, to the east, Tiburtina Via cuts a deliberate path through the terrain, its stones long-since smoothed by countless wheels and footsteps as it leads travellers to wherever they wish to go. These roads are meticulously engineered, built to stand the tests of time and thousands of feet.