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The present work looks at ancient political and philosophical considerations (with special attention to Plato, Aristotle and Cicero) on the best place where a long-lasting, harmonious city should be founded. After discussing both the advantages and the dangers borne by the sea, the aforementioned authors suggest that the city should be kept at a “safety distance” from the coast. Among them, Cicero alone – with the model of Rome in mind – comes up with the idea that the river may be the safest link to the sea. Cicero, thus, indicates the river as the ideal place for the foundation of a city, as it allows the city to enjoy the advantages of the coast, while protecting it from seaborne perils.