Q & A with archeologist, historian and TV host, Darius Arya

Darius has rappelled down caverns and explored underground churches and forgotten temples. He’s crawled through some of the world’s oldest sewers and spent months digging through layers of Roman soil at the ancient town of Ostia Antica. He’s travelled around the world exploring ancient cities for PBS. He lives in Rome and is the proud father of two girls.

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve done in Rome?

I’ve done countless explorations underground, from the Forum to aqueduct channels and unearthed bath complexes for research and TV shows. There's nothing like getting a bit dirty for the sake of furthering your knowledge.

Kids love going underground to discover hidden places. Which underground places in Rome would you recommend for kids?

Exploring the underground layers below Basilica San Clemente: the early Christian church, the Ancient Roman house and ancient Mithraic temple. The tour of the Domus Aurea, Nero’s palace, which has the bonus of a great VR experience. Both are a stone’s throw from the Colosseum. There’s also the warren of spooky underground passages of the Catacombs and the Ancient Roman houses below Palazzo Valentini with its use of light and graphics and the Case Romane del Celio.

What do you think is the most overrated place in Rome?

The Vatican and Colosseum are the obvious answers. These are key places to visit but the majority of tourists just shuttle between these two poles and then leave. There's so much more in Rome to explore and enjoy, even if you’re only in Rome for 24 or 36 hours.

Which museums do you suggest people visit?

There are many wonderful museums here that are off people's radars. Centrale Montemartini, the Museo Nazionale Romano - which includes Crypta Balbi, Palazzo Altemps, Palazzo Massimo and the Baths of Diocletian. Even Trajan's Markets often get ignored. These museums offer an unparalleled experience for visitors.

Both your children grew up in Rome. Where are your fondest family memories in the city?

I’ve got many wonderful family memories: family strolls through the Forum, taking the kids to look through the Aventine keyhole for the first time, Pentecost mass inside the Pantheon.

What did you want to be as a kid?

Probably a fireman. It was all about adventure and making a difference in people's lives. I think that my job today fits that description - with a focus on engaging people with history to enrich their lives.

What inspired you to become an archaeologist?

I visited Rome with my family when I was 13. I vividly remember Largo Argentina – the temples were overgrown and cats were roaming around but it was magical. And I remember the view of the Forum. I always loved the stories about Ancient Rome but it was as an undergrad that I became fascinated with the physical remains.

What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend to relax with the family?

Go shopping in the local markets then cook at home, go on bike rides and trips to parks in and outside of Rome.

You’re passionate about Roman history; how do you get your kids to share your enthusiasm?

You can’t brow-beat history into children. Each of my children has her own interests and agenda. Less is more with kids: give them some direction and let them discover a place in their own way... whether it’s by gathering flowers at an archaeological site, or sketching, or taking photos.

Kids easily get bored and switch off. Do you think the Trova app, with its series of detective trails, could be one solution for families visiting Rome?

I think it’s a great way for kids to learn about Rome’s history. The app strikes a balance between treasure hunting and teasing out details and facts about Ancient Rome. it’s a fun way for young learners who might otherwise be put off from the overwhelming amount of information and material remains. They will come away from the experience with a new appreciation of history and archaeology.