Trastevere district in Rome โ what to see, excursions, how to get there, map
Arriving in Rome, they usually begin their acquaintance with the eternal city from the breathtaking majesty and history of the center: the ancient Colosseum, monumental triumphal arches and stunning cathedrals. But it will be possible to feel the true spirit of Italy only by visiting the Trastevere area in Rome, which is located on the eastern slope of the Yancul hill, on the western bank of the Tiber. A labyrinth of medieval narrow streets with old houses and churches, frescoes, art galleries, markets and picturesque corners, it will sink into your soul so much that you will want to settle here and learn about its fascinating history.
District history
The area got its name from the Latin trans Tiberim, which is interpreted as โbeyond the Tiberโ, โacross the Tiberโ. The territory inhabited by Etruscan captives, the unattractive right bank of the river in the distant VIII-VI centuries left only the name of the region as a legacy. Later, in the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, on the right bank, which, unlike the left bank, was considered a non-prestigious place, the dwellings of the poor and the first Christian churches began to be built.
In the Middle Ages, a network of uneven narrow streets with lanes and small squares, most of which have survived to this day, spontaneously formed here. They conquer the view of medieval churches, entwined with grapes and ivy, houses with a palette of terracotta colors, cozy street cafes. Their originality and originality fill the area with an indescribable atmosphere. Let's take a virtual walk through the streets and see for ourselves in its charm.
What to see
You will not see the attractions included in the tourist guides of Rome. However, while walking along the ancient streets, your attention will certainly be attracted by several picturesque places, beautiful buildings and ancient temples. Let's stop for a while near them.
Trilus Square
Let's start the journey from Trilussa Square, located opposite the Sisto Bridge. This is one of the most famous Roman squares and a favorite meeting place for the Romans. The central part of the square is decorated with a fountain with steps leading to it, on which the townspeople like to sit and tourists like to relax. On the pompous fountain, built by order of Pope Paul V Borghese, you will see figures of dragons expressing the heraldry of the Borghese family. Your attention will be attracted by the monument to the poet Trilusse, who leaned his elbows on fragments of ancient Roman buildings in thought. Trilussa Square often becomes an open-air stage venue, where concerts and performances are held, which tourists watch with interest.
Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere
The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, towering on the square of the same name, is deservedly recognized as the pearl of medieval Italian architecture. It is the oldest and main church in the area. The main building of the temple was laid in the 3rd century, and in the 12th century a bell tower was added to it. At the beginning of the 18th century, a portico with sculptures of Roman saints was added to the basilica. It is impossible to tear your eyes away from the skillful mosaic that decorates the church facade, depicting St. Mary surrounded by 10 virgins and the apse sparkling with mosaics.
Entering the inside of the temple, you will see a number of gilded mosaics dedicated to the main events of the life of the Mother of God: the Annunciation, the Birth of Christ, the Adoration of the Magi, the Consecration of the baby Jesus in the Temple and the Assumption. The magnificence of the wooden carved gilded ceiling, the skillfulness of the Avila Chapel and the Altemps Chapel with a priceless ancient icon of the Madonna are amazing. You can look at this beauty for free on any day from 7.30 to 21.00.
Church of San Francesco a Ripa
The area's architectural treasures include the baroque church of San Francesco D'assisi a Ripa. According to legend, it was built on the spot where Saint Francis of Assisi, who arrived in Rome, stayed in the 13th century. Confirmation of this, the church keeps a stone on which St. Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order, laid his head during sleep. Then there was a shelter on this place, and after the canonization of Francis, in 1231, the construction of the basilica began. It was completely rebuilt in 1689 according to the project of Mattia de Rossi, decorated with sculptures.
After looking around the church from the outside, go inside to see the sculptural composition โThe Ecstasy of the Blessed Ludovica Alberoniโ, made in 1675 by the sculptor Bernini and recognized as a masterpiece of the Renaissance. The Rospigliosi chapel, made of multi-colored marble, dating from the beginning of the 17th century, made by the author of the famous waterfall in Peterhof, Nicolo Michetti, will attract attention.
The church is open to visitors daily from 7.15 to 12.00 and from 16.00 to 19.30.
Basilica of Saint Cecilia
Saint Cecilia, patron of church music, is recognized in Italy as a Christian martyr. The first church of Trastevere, dedicated to her, was built in the 5th century, according to legend, on the site of the house of the daughter of a Roman patrician โ Cecilia and her husband, who were martyred in the 3rd century. The tomb with the incorruptible body of the saint was found in the Roman catacombs in the 16th century, which surprised everyone. Today you can venerate the relics of Saint Cecilia, located in front of the altar in the tomb.
Above it is a white marble sculpture depicting a virgin martyr with a head covered with linen and mortal wounds from a sword strike. The unique frescoes of the Last Judgment, created by the famous artist of the Middle Ages, Pietro Cavallini, have been preserved in the church. Entrance to the church is free daily from 10.00 to 13.00 and from 16.00 to 19.00. Archaeological excavations are underway on the church grounds, which you can see for 2.2 โฌ.
Church of Santa Maria del Orto
The history of the construction of the church of Santa Maria del Orto goes back to the 15th century. According to legend, the origin of the church is associated with the miracle of healing a paralyzed peasant after praying in front of the image of the Virgin Mary, painted in front of the entrance to his garden. The construction of the church began in 1489 and continued until 1567. The architecture and decoration of the facades of the basilica will not surprise tourists.
Her unsurpassed beauty lies within. Raising your head up, you will be amazed by the luxury of the coffered ceiling and the charming mosaic of the 15th century, mysteriously shimmering in the gloomy light. It is worth mentioning that the best student of Michelangelo, Guidetti, put his soul into the design of the church interior. His work can be seen daily from 9.30 to 12.30 and from 15.00 to 17.30, except in August, when the church is closed.
Villa Farnesina
The pompous Villa Farnesina on Via della Lungara, recognized as a model of Renaissance architecture, was built in 1506 for a banker from Siena according to the project of the famous architect Baldassare Peruzzi, the creator of the world-famous St. Peter's Basilica. At the end of the 16th century, the building became the property of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, which gave the villa its name.
Thanks to Cardinal Farnese, who attracted the best masters of Renaissance painting to decorate the interior, we can admire the frescoes of Rafael Santi, Giovani da Udine and Sebastiano del Piombo. The halls of the villa also contain a large collection of unique art objects. The beauty of the villa is emphasized by the wonderful garden surrounding it. You can see artistic masterpieces every day, except Sunday, from 9.00 to 14.00, paying 6 โฌ for admission, and only on the second Sunday of the month the entrance is open from 9.00 to 17.00.
Palazzo Corsini
Opposite the Villa Farnesina, the late Baroque Grand Palace attracts attention. This is Palazzo Corsini, which belonged to a well-known Italian aristocratic family for a long time. The Palazzo is surrounded by picturesque gardens rising to the Gianicolo Hill. The second floor of the Palazzo Corsini is occupied by the collections of the National Gallery of Ancient Art of the Renaissance and Baroque.
The main part of the art canvases is the work of Italian artists of the 17th-18th centuries. Art connoisseurs will see paintings by Caravaggio, Giordano, Rubens, Van Dyck, Murillo depicting religious subjects. In addition to them, there are historical and genre paintings, as well as sculptures. The gallery is open to visitors: Wednesday โ Monday from 8.30 to 19.00. The day off is Tuesday.
Flea market of Porta Portese
The largest flea market in Rome โ Porta Portese can hardly be called an attraction. But it is he who is the place that attracts huge crowds of tourists with its unprecedented scale and placers of retro items. To get into this world of priceless secondhand, located at the intersection of Trastevere and VINievo streets, you need to focus on the Porta Portese arch, which served as a gateway to Rome back in the days of the Roman Empire.
Today, the arch passes countless streams of tourists hunting for unique souvenirs and original handicrafts. Here you can find unique old postcards and posters, jewelry, vintage clothes, antique dishes and valuable antiques. The market gathers sellers, despite the weather. You can wander along its lanes every Sunday from 6.00 to 14.00.
Tempัetto Bramante
The small chapel-rotunda Tempietto Bramante, erected in 1502 by the architect Bramante in the center of the monastery courtyard on Jankul Hill, on the site of the crucifixion of St. Peter, is recognized as a unique architectural creation of the Renaissance. Temietto, which means small temple in Italian, combines the features of ancient architecture with features of the Catholic Church. The gracefulness of the rotunda, surrounded by 16 granite columns and crowned with a dome, delights.
The outer walls are decorated with ornaments with sea shells. In general, the rotunda-chapel appears as a stepped pyramid, producing the effect of a majestic structure. Inside, Tempietto is only 4.5 meters in diameter. Along the perimeter of the walls there are 4 niches with statues of the holy evangelists, revered in Rome. Above the altar you will see the monumental figure of Saint Peter. The decoration of the interior are the walls and vaults, decorated by masters of the XVI-XVII centuries and the marble mosaic floor.
You can visit the chapel-rotunda: April-September from 9.00 to 19.00; October-March from 9.00 to 18.00.
Botanical Garden
A luxurious green oasis is the territory of the Botanical Garden, which adorns the slopes of Yankul Hill with lush greenery. The garden, whose views are enjoyed by its visitors, has become the successor of the Pontifical Botanical Garden, founded in the Renaissance. Walking palm and pine alleys will certainly lead you to the most picturesque corners of the park, divided into thematic zones. You can visit the Japanese garden, where you will see a bamboo grove, a multi-colored rock garden and a refreshing waterfall.
All types of Mediterranean vegetation are extensively represented in the Mediterranean Garden. The greenhouse with cacti collected from all over the Earth will also delight with its diversity, and the multicolor and intoxicating aromas of the rose garden lead visitors to indescribable delight. You can spend unforgettable hours in the beauties of the Botanical Garden by paying 8 โฌ. From April to October it is open: from Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 18.30; in November โ March until 17.30. Sunday is a day off.
Janiculum Hill and Viewpoint
The northern part of Trastevere is protected by the Janiculum Hill, towering above the area, which is not one of the 7 famous Roman hills. Of tourist interest is its observation deck, which opens, as on a map, the main part of the historical and cultural monuments and attractions of the center of Rome. The top of the hill is decorated with an equestrian sculpture of the national hero of the Italian Republic โ Garibaldi. Exactly at noon, here you can watch how they shoot from a cannon located near the monument. Then the bells of all Roman temples begin to echo the volley. The way from the center to Yankul hill will take no more than 15 minutes.
Aqua Paola Fountain
On Jankul Hill, not far from the Gates of St. Pancratius, the grandiose Aqua Paola Fountain attracts attention, resembling a pompous palace in its appearance. In the common people, he was dubbed the โfountainโ. The fountain was the completion of the ancient Roman aqueduct, restored under Pope Paul V Borghese at the beginning of the 17th century and providing water to several urban areas. Today, the fountain appears in the form acquired after the reconstruction of the end of the 17th century by the architect Carlo Fontana โ and with sculptural figures of eagles and winged dragons, symbolizing the heraldry of the Borghese family. Their images are also visible on the coat of arms of the pontiff, located at the top of the monument, supported by two angels. A square was arranged around the fountain, offering an amazing panorama of the Eternal City.
Tiber Island
In the middle of the Tiber River lies the unique island of Tiberina, resembling a boat in its outlines. It is connected to the historic center of Rome and Trastevere by 2 old footbridges from ancient times. On the Fabricho bridge you can get to the northeast side of the island from the left bank of the Tiber from the Champ de Mars. While on the bridge of Cestio it will be possible with pleasure to make a promenade from the southern part of the island to the right bank of Rome to Trastevere.
Picturesque nature and ancient buildings of the island evoke associations of a medieval city. In ancient times, the temple of medicine of the Greek god Aesculapius was located here, built at the end of the 3rd century at the height of the plague in Rome. Today there is also a hospital on the site. On the island of Tiberina you will see several interesting corners, the Basilica of St. Bartholomew, the building of the church of San Giovanni Chalibita of the XIV century, the Caetani Tower.
Cestio Bridge
The Chestio Bridge connected the island of Tiberina with the right-bank region previously in 46-44 AD. It got its name from the name of the Cestiev clan, who were involved in its construction. Until now, the bridge has been rebuilt several times, changing its names. In 370 AD, it was remodeled using various types of tufa and stone, renaming it Gratian's Bridge after one of the reigning emperors. In the 15th century, the stone crossing was called St. Bartholomew's Bridge after the name of the church standing on the island.
The end of the 19th century was marked by the reconstruction of the embankment, which caused an increase in the western channel by almost 30 meters. Then the ancient bridge was lengthened, bringing 2 extreme small arches in size in accordance with the central arch. Today you will walk along the 80-meter three-arched bridge, which inspired the creation of the famous engraving by Luigi Rossini โView of the Cestio Bridgeโ, touching the parapets that are more than 2 millennia old.
legends
The Trastevere area breathes with exciting legends and mysterious legends. Having visited the island of Tiberina, you will hear the legend about the Roman tyrant Tarquio Gordoma, who ruled in the VI century BC. For cruelty and injustice to his people, the inhabitants of Rome overthrew him from the throne and drowned him in the river. The body of the drowned ruler went to the bottom, where silt and river mud became his underwater grave. Later, the island of Tiberin was formed at the resting place of Tarqueville.
The following story refers to the 60s of our era, when during the reign of Emperor Nero, there were persecutions of preachers of Christianity. The apostle Peter, who came to Rome, was crucified on the cross for his sermons, just like his teacher Jesus Christ. Not considering himself worthy of crucifixion like Christ, Saint Peter asked to be crucified upside down. Today, under the chapel of Tempiette Bramante, there is a crypt, in the center of which you will be shown the place where the cross for the crucifixion of St. Peter stood.
One of the legends concerns the love story of the outstanding artist who created the paintings of the Renaissance, Rafael Santi. You will see that in his work the image of one young lady is repeated, which the master saw on the street of the quarter, decorating the Villa Farnesina. The beauty of the girl, the daughter of the local baker Margherita Lucia, struck the heart of Raphael, and the house where the beauty lived on Dorothea Street has a memorial sign. And you will learn many more legends while wandering with a guide through the ancient narrow streets.
Excursions
You can feel the real spirit of the Eternal City on an excursion with a Russian-speaking guide.
The labyrinths of ancient streets dedicated to the history of Trastevere, places inhabiting the area in different eras, will be interestingly told about the people who lived here and significant events, the guide on the tour โTrastevere. Rome you didn't know about.
On the tour dedicated to the โChronicles of Winding Streetsโ, you will see the first Roman bridge, Lungara Street โ the pilgrims' road that went to the Vatican, Septiema Gate, which protected the area from enemy attacks, a 500-year-old pharmacy, an old church and a barrel fountain.
Church architecture lovers can choose the tour โChurches of Trastevere and their masterpiecesโ. Before their eyes will appear the masterpieces of early Christianity and the Renaissance:
โTrastevere โ the true spirit of Romeโ โ the tour will cover all the famous churches of the area, walking along the street where Raphael's Beloved lived and ending on the island of Tiberina.
Excursion โHidden plots of authentic cornersโ will reveal the secret stories that took place behind the facades of the โHouse of Punishmentโ, Villa Farnesina, Corsini Palace. The guide will explain the inscriptions on the buildings of the famous Italians.
A special tour is dedicated to โVilla Farnesina: with Raphael's frescoes without crowded museums!โ, where you will admire Raphael's creations with mythological subjects, read a star map and even see Michelangelo's โautographโ.
An excursion to the Janiculum Hill will dedicate you to the life story of Garibaldi, give you enjoyment of the views of Rome from the observation deck, and give you rest at the pompous Aqua Paola fountain.
โThe streets of Trastevere and the panorama of Gianicoloโ will give you a stunning view of the entire old city. On the tour you will see the Paolo fountain, the Tempietto rotunda, the decoration of the churches of Santa Maria in Trastevere and Santa Cecilia, medieval frescoes, walk along the ancient bridges to the island of Tiberina.
โThe charm of the evening cityโ โ a promenade through the most beautiful places in Trastevere with a visit to taverns, cafes and sturgeons.
โGastronomic toursโ are several excursions to choose from in the gastronomic areas of Trastevere. The guide will introduce you to authentic Italian delicacies, wonderful pastries and ice cream. It will be useful, exciting and tasty:
Where to eat delicious
We will tell gourmets where you can experience the true pleasure of the taste of traditional Italian dishes. After all, some of the best and inexpensive restaurants, taverns and cafes are located in Trastevere.
Authentic Italian cuisine is famous for La Tavernetta 29 da Tony e Andrea on Via della Pelliccia 29A. The restaurant will delight you with a wonderful bar, shrimp risotto, ravioli and, of course, Florentine steak.
You can find Federica & Barbara of BB Kitchen nearby Fontana in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. You will be provided with real Italian hospitality, national cuisine with lasagna, gnocchi, mouth-watering tiramisu, original ice cream and communication with the hostess Barbara.
Ombre Rosse at Piazza di S. Egidio, 12-13 will delight you with the freshest hot focaccia, Pince with salmon, Carbonara pasta and drinks.
Of course, one cannot fail to mention the pizzerias. The best pizzerias Pizzeria di Marmi on Viale di Trastevere 53-59. Everyone will say that there is the most delicious pizza in Rome on a thin crust.
Seu Pizza Illuminati on Via Angelo Bargoni, 10โ18 is more expensive. This stylish pizzeria offers Neapolitan-style pizzas with fluffy dough and creative toppings.
Peppo al Cosimato on Via Natale del Grande, 9 will amaze you with a variety of seafood dishes: soups, fish of the day with vegetables, pizza, octopus sandwiches and the extraordinary maritozzo dessert.
Bars of the La Boccaccia network, located on Via di Santa Dorotea, will also offer inexpensive food. Their peculiarity is the sale of pizza slices with a variety of toppings, sold by weight.
La Tavernaccia da Bruno in Via Giovanni da Castel Bolognese, 6 will give you the taste of real Italian pasta and melanza made with eggplant and parmesan.
Among the take-away restaurants, we recommend Rumi Bottega Organica on Via di San Francesco a Ripa, 133, where you can take any salads, lasagna, burgers and vegan dishes.
At Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 29, don't miss the Tiramisu restaurant, where you can get takeaway tiramisu with non-traditional flavors.
Those with a sweet tooth should head to Fatamorgana at Via Roma Libera, 11, famous for the taste and range of ice cream and sweets, or at Fior di Luna at Via della Lungaretta, 96 to enjoy original homemade organic ice cream.
Which hotel to choose
But for lovers of luxury living, there are several hotels of category 5 and 4. Here are some good options near the center with beautiful views from the hotel:
If you want to choose a budget accommodation for yourself, 3 hotels near Trastevere train station are suitable: Hotel Il Villino 3 and Hotel Villa Rosa 3, from which it is convenient to get to the historical center of Rome and the Vatican. Do you prefer apartments? Then choose: Sweet del Moro at 23 Via del Moro 1 piano, with two bedrooms and a living room, located 1.7 km from the synagogue of Rome and 2.9 km from the Roman Forum or apartments in the Residenza San Calisto 3 complex in a picturesque old quarter in the center of Trastevere.
How to get there
If you are already in Rome, the Trastevere area is easily accessible on foot. From the side of the Vatican, walking 2 km along the promenade in a southerly direction. The same distance separates the western part of the district from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Heading on foot from Piazza Venezia, the Colosseum or the Aventine Hill, cross the Tiber on the bridges: Ponte Sisto, Ponte Garibaldi, Ponte Cestio and Ponte Fabricio and Ponte Palatino. Tram number 8 runs from Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forum on Trestevere, from which you need to get off at one of the stations: Viale Trastevere or Mastai. For 1.5 euros, he will drive you to the area in 12 minutes.
In 15 minutes from Roma Termini train station to Roma Trastevere station, you can take the train for 1 euro (RV 2348 and regional route REG 23660 Grosseto) or bus H. for 1.5 euros. From Fiumicino Airport, you can take half an hour by commuter train on flights FM1 or FL1 to Roma Trastevere station. The ticket costs 8 euros. It reaches the south side, from where you can walk or take a tram / bus to the desired hotel.