Pontine Marshes

Pontine Marshes, swamp district in central Italy, in Latium, extending south-east from Velletri to the Tyrrhenian Sea at Terracina. The centre of the Pontine Marshes is about 65 km (41 mi) south-east of Rome. About 775 sq km (300 sq mi) in area, the district is separated from the sea by sand dunes and is traversed by the Appian Way. Throughout history the marshes have been a breeding place for disease, notably malaria. Julius Caesar attempted to make the surrounding area healthful, but he died before his plan to turn the River Tiber into the marshes could be effected. Other Roman emperors attempted to reclaim the land, and after them a succession of popes. In 1899 the Italian government set aside funds for the project. Under the government of Benito Mussolini, more than 20,230 hectares (50,000 acres) were reclaimed and put under cultivation from 1928 to 1932. Since that time, the towns of Latina and Terracina have been founded in the area.