Ostia: Merchant Expansion

The Roman Empire is known for the development of highways, as a result, later generations would say "all roads lead to Rome". However, there are not many opportunities to talk about their maritime traffic. Despite their dependency on ships to import large quantities of goods, Senators were banned from owning ships (Lex Claudia, 218BC). And thus, all those great profits from maritime trades become the territory of low-ranking knights and foreigners. Not only do the aristocrats provide you with various demands for your business, they are also prepared to give you the honour you deserve. Your voyages are also the light of hope for the Roman aristocrats who cannot row into the sea.