Via Appia

We are using a layered communication toolkit called Appia for our Distributed Algorithm course. I was reading the FAQ section where I came to a part explaining the story behind the name.

The first of the great Roman roads, the Via Appia (Appian Way), begun by the censor Appius Claudius Caecus in 312 BC, originally ran southeast from Rome 162 miles (216 km) to Tarentum (modern Taranto) and was later extended to the Adriatic coast at Brundisium (modern Brindisi).

Roads were fundamental to the development of the Roman empire who governed a big part of Europe for several centuries. A huge network of roads was established by that time, connecting all the roman empire, leading to the proverb "All roads lead to Rome". By that time, roads were the only communication channel available. They were used to transport goods and news and helped in the expansion of the empire.

The roman roads were notable for their straightness, solid foundations, cambered surfaces facilitating drainage, and use of concrete made from pozzolana (volcanic ash) and lime. Though adapting their technique to materials locally available, the Roman engineers followed basically the same principles in building abroad as they had in Italy.

The Roman road system made possible Roman conquest and administration and later provided highways for the great migrations into the empire and a means for the diffusion of Christianity.

Note: The above text was partially taken from the entry Roman road system of the Encyclopædia Britannica.

It is quite interesting. It somehow reminded me of the postal system of the Achaemenid Empire which was established mainly under the reign of Darius.

Having a strong and reliable communication infrastructure is essential to the development of any country. I wished decision makers back in my country would have opened their eyes and realizes how they are causing setbacks with their frustrating and stupid approach to the ICT infrastructure in Iran.