Appii Forum and Three Taverns (Three Inns) – Italy

Three Taverns is a town about 33 miles from Rome and represents an important confluence of roadway.  The main thoroughfare is the Appian Way. Intersections exist with roads leading to Tusculum, Alba Longa, and Antium.  As a result, this was a frequent meeting place for travelers.  

The name seems to have been derived from the presence of three shops (as opposed to three inns: 1) a general store 2) blacksmith shop and 3) a tavern or refreshment house.

Scriptural Significance

After leaving Puteoli, Paul began the 142-mile trek to Rome. When news had arrived that Paul was in Italy, the Christians from Rome went out to greet him.  Some went as far as the town of the Three Taverns; others went even further to Appii Forum (Acts 28: 15).

“…And the next day we came to Puteoli, where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.”

Acts 28: 13 – 15