National Unity and Armed Forces Day

Wonder why there were jets flying over the centre this morning? Or why Piazza Venezia was closed to traffic?

National Unity and Armed Forces Day

On November 4th, Italy celebrates National Unity and Armed Forces Day – which commemorates the end of World War I on the Italian Front and soldiers lost in battle.  The day is also meant to pay respect to those actively serving in Italy’s armed forces around the world.

On November 3rd 1918, Italian and Austrian-Hungarian forces agreed to and signed an armstice agreement at Villa Giusti in Padova, Italy.  On November 4th, 1918 the ceasefire between Italian and Austrian-Hungarian forces took effect – ending the First World War on the Italian Front and contributing to the conclusion of the war shortly there after.

The ceasefire was the result of the Battle of Vittorio Veneto in northern Italy where Italian forces defeated Austrian-Hungarian forces.  Some Italians see this victory as the cumination of the Risorgimento Nationalist Movement that unified the country in the 19th century.

National Unity and Armed Forces Day at Altare della Patria in Rome

Each year, Rome commemorates National Unity and Armed Forces Day with a ceremony at Altare della Patria. During the ceremony more than 1000 service members participate in the military parade.

The ceremony also features the President of Italy placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

There is a fly-over by the Italian Air Force’s aerial acrobatics team Frecce Tricolori.

By |November 4th, 2016|Events in Rome, Holiday|0 Comments
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November 4th – 11th in Rome

1. Roma Jazz Festival

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(cc: romajazzfestival.it)

From November 6th to the 23rd, Rome will be holding its 40th annual jazz festival! The festival includes various events and performances to be enjoyed by the public.  This week You can see Radical Gypsy at Casa del Jazz (November 6th), Joshua Redman/Brad Mehldau Duo at Sinopoli Hall (November 8th), and Jacob Collier at Petrassi Hall (November 9th).

Where: Locations vary, please visit website

When: November 6th to 23rd, specific times vary

Tickets: Also varies based on performance

2. Exhibit: Star Wars: Play

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(cc: ilvittoriano.com)

Until January 29th, visitors have the opportunity to experience the cinematographic history of the Star Wars francise right here in Rome.  The exhibit includes over 1000 items including scale models, toys, costumes, vintage prints and many more. Experience another level of the universe that has captivated audiences for decades.

Where: Complesse del Vittoriano ala Brasini, Via San Pietro in Carcere

When: Until January 29th – Monday to Thursday 9:30-19:30, Friday and Saturday 9:30 to 22:00, and Sundays 9:30-20:30

Tickets: 8€ – 10€

3. Cinema2Day

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(cc: @cinema2day)

Thanks to the Italian Culture Ministry, it will only cost 2€ to see a movie next Wednesday! The nationwide initiative hopes to encourage culture through the cinema and applies to over 3000 movie theatres nationwide. The initiative will also continue through the second week of February, offering 2€ movies on the second Wednesday of each month.

Where: Locations vary, please go to the Cinema2Day website for more details

When: November 9th

Tickets: 2€

4. Exhibit: Art and Politics

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(cc: museomacro.org)

“Arte e Politica” is MACRO’s newest exhibition exploring differenct political and social themes.  From 1930s paintings reflecting sentiments surrounding Fascism to more recent social/political attitudes and issues, this exhibit is both thought-provoking and fascinating.  The exhibit includes works by Mario Mafai, Claudio Abate, Ines Fontenla, and many more.

Where: MACRO, Via Nizza 138

When: Until May 10th – Tuesday to Sunday 10:30-19:30

Tickets: 9€-11€

5. MAXXI Raises Funds to Help With Earthquake Aftermath 

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(cc: @valentina_pascale)

Following a series of earthquakes in central Italy, the MAXXI Museum of 21st Century Art has decided to raise funds to help restore historic buildings, churches and other aspects of Italian cultural heritage that were damaged.  On Saturday November 5th, all proceeds from ticket sales at MAXXI will go directly towards these efforts.  This is a great opportunity to experience one of Rome’s best museums while also giving back to the community!

Where: MAXXI, Via Guido Reni 4

When: Saturday November 5th – 11:00-22:00

Tickets: 8€-12€

What are your favourite events in Rome this week? Let us know on Facebook! 

Visit our website to book one of our many guided tours of Rome! 

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By |November 3rd, 2016|Best places in Rome, Concerts in Rome, Exhibition in Rome, Food in Rome, Holiday, Restaurants in Rome, Sport Events in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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Explore With Us: Trastevere

The city of Rome is made up of various neighbourhoods/districts that each have their own sentiments and atmospheres.  Twice a month, Enjoy Rome will be exploring these neighbourhoods and providing you with our tips to make the 0-1most out of your visit.  This week we are wandering through the charming streets of Trastevere, one of Rome’s most interesting districts.  Book your spot on our guided tour of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto to learn more!

The Trastevere neighbourhood, the 13th district of Rome, is an off-the-beaten-path gem that is rich in history and culture.   Trastevere (which means “across the river”) is a unique district filled with winding cobblestone streets, greenery and even graffiti.  You can find this charming area on the West side of the Tiber River via Ponte Sisto, just a short walk from the busy city centre.

The origins of Trastevere can be traced to Ancient Rome when it was mostly inhabited by sailors, fishermen, and slaves. It also became home to the city’s first Jewish community before the Ghetto was established in the 1500s. Fast forward to the 1970s, the culture of Trastevere is comparable to the 1960s counter-culture in San Francisco – attracting writers, acitivists, and musicians en masse. It is clear that Trastevere was considered to be on the periphery for centuries, however it is this position that allowed it to develop the unique personality that is tanglible in the district today.

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Here are our Trastevere highlights, as well as recommendations of what to see/do before or after your tour:

TO SEE…

Although Piazza Trilussa is located at the edge of the district, it remains one of Trastevere’s main squares.  Here you will find both locals and tourists sitting on the steps of the fountain, enjoying a beer and listening to live music. On the weekend, Trilussa becomes a hotspot for Rome’s youth before they head to one of Trastevere’s many bars.

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Porta Settimiana is an ancient gate in Rome’s Aurelian walls.  In Trastevere, you can sip a cappuccino at the nearby cafe while observing this piece of antiquity.

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(cc: maremagnum.com)

Head to Trastevere’s main square – Piazza Santa Maria – to see Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.  The piazza itself is often bustling with visitors and street artists including musicians, performers, etc.  You will also find it is a common past-time to sit and people watch on the steps of the fountain.  The Basilica itself dates back to the 4th century and includes incredible 12th century mosaics.  Experience Basilica di Santa Maria in detail on our guided tour of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto! 

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Basilica di Santa Cecilia (the patroness of music) is also located in the Trastevere district. The church itself was built in the 9th century and is said to have been constructed on the site where St. Cecilia’s home once stood. Inside you will find one of Cavalini’s most famous frescoes, as well as Stefano Maderno’s sculpture of St. Cecilia. The church was built during the reign of Pope Paschal I who also had St. Cecilia’s remains moved there from the San Callisto Catacombs. Book your tour of the San Callisto Catacombs to see St. Cecilia’s orginial resting place.

You can also find Palazzo Corsini in the Trastevere district – an 18th century boroque palace built by the prominent Corsini family. The palace now holds the National Gallery of Antique Art.

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Also worth mentioning is Piazza San Cosimato.  Each Sunday morning, the Piazza holds Trastevere’s only open-air market.

TO WALK…

As previously mentioned, Trastevere has some of the most charming streets in the city. Many of the district’s cobblestone streets are lush with greenery and romantically lit at night.  Enjoy Rome recommends Via del Moro and Via dei Genovesi.

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Just above Trastevere is Gianicolo Hill where you can find some of the best views of the Eternal city.  It is about a 20 minute walk up-hill, but so worth it.

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TO SHOP…

One of the best things about Trastevere is that it has some of the most interesting shopping in the city. Here you will find a variety of flagship/concept stores and studios with an ecclectic selection of items.  It’s a “you won’t find this anywhere else” kinda place.

We recommend the Almost Corner Bookstore for a wide selection of international literature and Polvere di Tempo for a magical mix of globes, clocks, etc.  Also be sure to stop into Ferrara for artisanal italian food products.

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TO EAT…

Trastevere has emerged as one of Rome’s most prominent foodie neighbourhoods.  Whether it is traditional italian dishes, international cuisine, or street food, Trastevere has it all.  We recommend Dar Poeta – a quaint family-run pizzeria tucked away on a quiet street.  La Renella is the place to go for pizza al taglio (Roman pizza by the slice), fresh breads, and baked desserts.  Additionally, Checco has built a reputation for having some of the best Roman cuisine in the district.  If you are looking to satisy a gelato craving Fior di Luna‘s selection of fruit flavours are some of the best.

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TO DRINK…

Trastevere is central to Rome’s nightlife.  On the weekends (as well as many weekdays) you will find the streets street buzzing with local youth and international students.  As a result, the neighbourhood has cultivated an interesting variety of cocktail bars.  We recommend Freni & Frizioni if you are looking to mingle with the locals and Santo if you are looking to try top notch mixology. Bir and Fud also offers a wide selection of Italian brewed beers.

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Want to see more? Book your tour of Trastevere with Enjoy Rome! 

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By |November 2nd, 2016|Best places in Rome, Food in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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Mercato Mondays: The New Testaccio Market

Although it has formed the reputation as being the hub of Rome’s nightlife, Testaccio has also been recognized as the original foodie dimercatomondaysstrict in Rome
where you can find both authentic cuisine and modern twists on classic dishes. The New Testaccio Market is
located in the heart of the Testaccio neighbourhood – a working class neighbourhood tucked away from the bustling centre of Rome.  The original market was located in the main piazza and was one of the oldest markets in the city.  In 2012, however, the New Testaccio Market was officially opened with 103 stands where vendors offer local products to buy and to taste.

The market offers an authentic local market experience in a quintessentially Roman distict;

That is why we chose the New Testaccio Market for this week’s Mercato Monday.

Where: Entrances from Via Aldo Manuzio, Via Galvani, and Via Franklin.  You can take Metro Line B, Piramide, Bus #23, or Tram #8 to get there.

When: Monday-Saturday, 7:00 to 15:30

Entrance: Free entry

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The market itself is located inside a modern building strewn with skylights that keep the natural sunlight pouring in. This market is the place to go to get basically everything you need under one roof.  From fresh produce, to high quality meats/cheeses, to cannolo, to wine –  Mercato Testaccio has it all.  There are even some vendors selling kitchenware, clothing, and other home goods.  It is the perfect place to go to experience a slice of local life. Here are some of our highlights:

Mordi e Vai is a must try at Testaccio market.  This Roman deli offers authentic Roman stuffed sandwiches.  The shop owner and chef Sergio has transformed traditional cucina Romana into an assortment of savoury sandwiches including tripe, meatballs, braised beef, and sausage – all served on freshly baked bread.

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La Prosciutteria di Enzo e Lina is the place to go for meats and cheeses.  The shop owner prides himself on high quality products and will tell you all about it if you ask.  Here you can choose from a wide selection of meats and cheeses from Norcia – the headliner is definitely the prosciutto.

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Tucked away in the centre of the market you will find Le Mani in Pasta where you have the opportunity to purchase fresh noodles and fully prepared pasta dishes to take home or indulge in their dishes on site.  Options include classic Roman dishes such as carbonara and cacio e pepe with truffles. All of their pastas are made from organic products and are hand-made in front of your eyes.

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On the outskirts of the market you will also find a vino sfuso.  Vino sfuso is traditionally known as wine that comes from grapes that are not good enough to be bottled.  Nowadays, vino sfuso locations can be found all over the centres of Italy’s major cities offering a wide selection of prosecco and wines for incredibly low prices and the quality will suprise you! At Mercato Testaccio’s vino sfuso you can grab a glass of wine or prosecco for 2€ and enjoy it while to explore the rest of the market.

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While strolling through the market you will also find a variety of fruit/vegetable vendors selling the fresh seasonal produce and artisanal products such as sauces, spreads, etc.

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Last but not least is Strit Fud, just on the edge of the courtyard.  Although this place may not be the most traditional in practice, it is worth drawing some attention to.  Strit Fud offers take-away meals that have been heavily influenced by classic Roman recipes. However, the chef has used his creative license to create modern versions of cucina Romana – such as his take on pizza.

One of the great things about Mercato Testaccio is that it is so much more than just a place to buy food.  It truly is an authentic cultural space where you can partake in Rome’s version of la dolce vita.

Whose your favourite vendor at Mercato Testaccio? Let us know in the comments! 

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By |October 31st, 2016|Best places in Rome, Food in Rome, Restaurants in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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Haunted Rome: 5 Spooky Places to See This Halloween

Hallows-week is here! What better way to celebrate than exploring the city’s spookiest sites? With thousands of years of history, Rome has no shortage of potentially haunted locations – some of them may even surprise you.  Here are 5 spooky places to visit this Halloween in Rome:

1. Castel Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sant’Angelo

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Castel Sant’Angelo is a staple of the Roman skyline, but it also has a dark past. Particularly during the Renaissance era, Castel was one of multiple sites in Rome where papal executions would take place. A multitude of executions took place on the bridge in front of Castel, Ponte Sant’Angelo. The papal state also used it as a prison where many died while waiting for their sentence. Considering the history of the landmark, it is not surprising that it has been the site of many ghostly sitings.

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(@artitalyapp)

The most well-known haunting of Castel Sant’Angelo and the nearby bridge is the story of Beatrice Cenci.  Beatrice was the daughter of a wealthy aristocrat who was sentenced to death in 1599 for the murder of her father.  Beatrice was executed at the gallows once raised in front of Castel Sant’Angelo. Since then, both visitors and locals have claimed to see her headless ghost walking across the bridge on the night of September 10th to 11th. However, sightings of Beatrice are not limited to September 11th, so perhaps she will make an appearance this Halloween.

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(telesanterno.com)

Castel is also allegedly haunted by the ghost of Mastro Titta – who is commonly referred to as the legendary executioner of Rome.  Between 1796 and 1864 Titta executed 816 prisoners on behalf of the Papal State.There have been many claims that Titta can be seen walking Ponte Sant’Angelo at dusk wearing a red cloak. It is said that he offers passersby tobacco, just like he used to do for those awaiting execution.

Where: Lungotevere Castello, 50

When: 9:00-19:30 daily

Entrance: 11€-16€

2. Death’s Portal

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St. Peter’s Basilica is home to 5 sets of bronze doors – each depicting important Catholic beliefs or experiences. The most prominenet of these doors is the Holy Door – which is only open on Jubilee years.  Less prominent are the set of doors referred to as the Doors of Death.  Located to the far left of the Basilica’s portico, the Doors of Death depict morbid scenes including the deaths of Jesus, Mary and St. Peter.  Considering the content of these doors it is not surprising that they were used for funeral processions. Many even refuse to walk through these doors for fear of being cursed.

You can see the Doors of Death on Enjoy Rome’s tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.  Go to www.enjoyrome.com to book! 

Where: St Peter’s Basilica, Piazza San Pietro

When: Open daily 7:00-18:30

3. Campo dei’ Fiori and the Ghost of Giordano Bruno

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Campo de’ Fiori is one of Rome’s most lively areas. However, both visitors and locals often overlook the ominous statue located at the centre of the piazza.  The statue is of Giordano Bruno, an Italian philosopher and astrologer who is best known for his theories of the cosmos. Bruno was tried for heresy by the Roman Inquisition and sentenced to death. On February 17th, 1600 Bruno was executed in Campo dei’ Fiori.  Many have claimed to see his ghost wandering the piazza at night or looking down on the crowd from one of the terraces above.

Where: Piazza Campo de’Fiori

4. Crypt of the Capuchin Friars

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(No photos are allowed inside; digitized postcard; author unknown)

This location is both creepy and fascinating all at the same time, thus making for the perfect Halloween visit.  The Crypt of the Capuchin Friars is located within catacombs of the Church of Our Lady of Conception of the Capuchins.  The church itself was completed in the 17th century . It is not exactly known when the catacombs were constructed, however it is believed to have been between 1732 and 1775. The crypts themselves are comprised of 5 rooms decorated with the bones of 4,000 friars.  The decorations include instricate designs and patters such as crosses, crowns, and even a chandelier.  Not to mention the eerie plaque that reads “What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be”.

Where: Via Vittorio Veneto, 27

When: Open daily 9:00-12:00 and 15:00-18:00

Entrance: 4€-6€

5. San Callisto Catacombs

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(No photos are allowed inside; digitized postcard; author unknown)

There are many catacomb sites in and around Rome, but the most popular are probably the San Callisto Catacombs located on the Appian Way.  The catacombs are a massive underground burial complex where popes, martyrs and other Christians have been buried for centuries – including the original crypt of St. Cecilia.  It is difficult to get much spookier than miles of dimply lit crypts where the souls of thousands were buried.

Want to learn more about the San Callisto Catacombs? Book your spot on our guided tour of the Catacombs and the Appian Way! 

 

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By |October 29th, 2016|Holiday, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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October 28th – November 3rd in Rome

It may be hallows-week, but there is still plenty of other things to see and do in Rome! Here are 5 interesting events to add to your calendar this week:

1. Van Gogh Alive: The Experience 

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(cc: @claire_larsson)

This multimedia exhibition brings the works of Vincent Van Gogh to life! Using Sensory4 Technology, the exhibit uses 50 high definition projectors to display more than 3,000 graphics and pairs them with a powerful soundtrack – immersing visitors in Van Gogh’s most famous pieces from 1880-1890.  Experience a new depth to Van Gogh’s masterpieces and his unique style at this exhibit.

When: October 25th to December 31st / Monday to Thursday 10:00-20:00, Fridays and Saturdays 10:00-23:00, Sundays 10:00 to 21:00

Where: Palazzo degli Esami – Via Girolamo Induno, 4

Tickets: 12€-15€

2. Via Margutta Art Exhibit 

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(cc: @simoncaruso)

This event is not your average art exhibit.  From October 28th to November 1st visitors and locals have the chance to explore the open-air art exhibit on Via Margutta.  More than 100 painters will be showcased and visitors have the opportunity to purchase the works they see. You may have heard of Via Margutta before; not only is it one of Rome’s most charming streets, but it is also one of the locations where Roman Holiday was filmed.  In the movie, Gregory Peck’s character lives in an apartment on Via Margutta, 51.  Experience a bit of Hollywood while also supporting local artisans!

When: October 28th to November 1st / 10:00 -21:00 daily 

Where: Via Margutta (Close to the Spanish Steps) 

Tickets: Free entry

3. All Saints Day 

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(cc: lifeinitaly.com)

All Saints Day (Festa di Oggnisanti) is both a religious and national holiday in Italy celebrating the Saints of the Catholic Church. Its origins date back to Ancient times and it has been a public holiday since 1949. Important Information: Since Oggnisanti is a public holiday, schools and many businesses will be closed. These closures may be partial or the entire day depending on the business. The Vatican Musems will be closed and St. Peter’s Basilica will be operating on a Sunday schedule: 7:00-18:30 with masses every hours between 7 and 12, as well as an evening mass at 17:00. The Colosseum will be operating normally.

When: November 1st

4. Edward Hopper Exhibit 

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(cc: @ludicapo)

This exhibit features one of the most well-known American artists of the 20th century. Edward Hopper was a prominent realist painter whose paintings have provided interesting insights into American culture for the past century. Hopper was best known for his oil paintings, however he was also very talented with watercolours and print-making.  This exhibit features 60 of Hopper’s works – highlighting Hopper’s focus on the common features of American life as well as seascapes and rural landscapes. Featured works include Le Bistro or The Wine Shop (1909), New York Interior (19211), and South Carolina Morning (1955).

When: Through February 12th / Monday to Thursday 9:30-19:30, Fridays and Saturdays 9:30 to 22:00, and Sundays 9:30 to 20:30

Where: Complesso del Vittoriano, Via di San Pietro in Carcere

Tickets: 12€-14€

5. The Cure in Concert 

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(cc: correttainformazione.it)

British rock/punk group the Cure will be playing a live concert at the Palalottomatica Sports Arena on October 30th.  At this point it appears that most tickets are sold out, but you never know!

When: October 30th

Where: Palalottomatica Sports Arena – Piazzale Pier Luigi Nervi, 1

Tickets: Prices vary

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By |October 27th, 2016|Best places in Rome, Concerts in Rome, Events in Rome, Exhibition in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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Fun Facts: The Pantheon

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By |October 26th, 2016|Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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Mercato Mondays: Mercato Centrale, Termini

In 2014, Mercato Centrale opened in the heart of Florence and it was a huge success. Thanks to the same team, Rome now has a Mercato Cemercatomondaysntrale of its own inside Termini Station.  Although this market does not exactly convey the traditional Italian market experience, it does bring together some of the region’s best food producers.  That is why we chose to explore the new Mercato Central Roma for Enjoy Rome’s first Mercato Monday.

Where: Termini Station – accessible from Via Golitti, 36

When: 7:oo – 00:00 daily

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(cc: anamericaninrome.com)

Termini station is Rome’s main hub for public transportation as well as trains outside of the city.  The building itself was inaugurated in 1950 and takes its name from the nearby Baths of Diocletian (thermae in latin).  The newest addtion to Termini (Mercato Centrale Roma) officially opened on October 5th – transforming the station into a new cultural and culinary centre.

The first floor of the market houses 15 vendors offering some of Italy’s culinary classics as well as some modern twists.  Don’t let the food court-style seating fool you, each vendor prides themselves on the quality and authenticity of their food. There is an abundance of choices to satisfy any craving, but here are some of our highlights:

Baker Gabriele Bonci has brought his famous pizza al taglio (Roman pizza by the slice), foccacia, and cakes to the market.

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For an authentic selection of meats and charchuterie, Mercato Centrale has recruited renowed butcher Roberto Liberati. 

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Beppe e i Suoi Formaggi – one of Rome’s best wine and cheese bars – can also be found in the market and offers an impressive selection of cheeses from Piemonte and Sardinia.

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It is hard not to notice the enourmous marble chimney at the centre of the market. Composed of Portuguese marble, this chimney was designed by Angiolo Mazzoni in the 1930s and acts as a focal point for the market.

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On the second floor you will find additional dining space, a pantry-like grocer, as well as a small coffeeshop.  However, the gem of the second floor is Michelin star chef Oliver Glowig‘s restaurant.

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(cc: anamericaninrome.com)

The third floor houses space for cultural events and seminars – both private and public.

There is no denying the chaos and somewhat daunting nature of Termini Station, but the new Mercato Centrale is changing that by providing a welcoming environment for both tourists and locals alike.

 

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By |October 24th, 2016|Best places in Rome, Food in Rome, Restaurants in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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October 21st-28th in Rome

October is quickly coming to a close and November is just around the corner. Here are 5 must see events to add to your calendar this week:

1. International Photography Festival of Rome 

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(cc: http://www.fotografiafestival.it/)

This year marks the 15th edition of the International Photography Festival of Rome. Entitled “Roma, il Mondo”, the exhibit aims to highlight the juxtaposition of international culture in Rome through photography. The exhibit features works by both emerging and established Italian photographers, as well as international entries.

When: October 21st – January 8th, Tuesday to Sunday 10:30-19:30

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art – Via Nizza 138

Tickets: 9€ – 11€

2. Exhibit: Valeriano Ciai 1928-2013

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(@romeartweek)

This exhibit features 30 works by the famous Roman painter Valeriano Ciai – tracing the development of his life, artistic career and the city of Rome itself. Hosted by the Museum of Rome in Trastevere, this exhibit provides an interesting exploration of Italian realism and abstract art from 1928 to 2013.

When: Until November 6th – Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-20:00

Where: Museo di Roma

Tickets: 5€-6€

3. Giornata del Teatro 

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(cc: mrkbzl)

October 22nd was declared the national Day of Theatre in hopes of providing the public with the opportunity to re-explore theatric world.  As part of this declararion, all of Italy’s theatres will be open to the public on Saturday for tours as well as live performances.

When: Saturday October 22nd – times vary

Where: Please note that the specific location depends on which theatre you would like to visit.  Check out our blog post dedicated to Giornata del Teatro  5 theatres to see in Rome for more information!

Tickets: Free

4. Notte Bianca at Villa Medici

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(cc: @luna_m)

Villa Medici will be celebrating Notte Bianca – or the White Night – on October 27th.  The nocturnal celebration will feature art installations throughout the Villa as well as the gardens!

When: October 27th at 19:00 – October 28th at 4:00

Where: Villa Medici – Viale della Trinita dei Monti

Tickets: Free

5. Rome’s Film Festival Continues

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As we discussed in our previous post, Rome’s 11th annual film festival continues until October 23rd! The festival includes over 40 official film selections including Florence Foster Jenkins starring Meryl Streep, as well as Oliver Stone’s highly anticipated film Snowden. In addition to film screenings the festival will also include art/film exhibitions, debates and panel discussions. Events will be held at the Parco Della Musica Auditorium, Maxxi Museum, and more.

When: Until October 23rd

Where: Event locations may vary; please visit romacinemafest.it for more details

Tickets: Tickets vary depending on the event; please visit romacinemafest.it for more details

By |October 20th, 2016|Best places in Rome, Concerts in Rome, Events in Rome, Exhibition in Rome, Holiday, Music in Rome, Things to do in Rome|0 Comments
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October 21st-28th in Rome

The theatre holds an important place in  Italy’s culture and history. This has led to the Italian Minister of Culture declaring October 22nd Giornata del Teatro (Day of Theatre) in Italy.  On this day, the public has the opportunity to re-discover the value of the theatre by way of free access, tours and performances at Italy’s major theatres/opera houses.  Here is a list of 5 historical theatres/opera houses in Rome to explore on Giornata del Teatro:

1. Teatro Argentina

teatroargentina1

(cc: atravelintime.worpress.com)

Located at Largo di Torre Argentina,  this 18th century opera house is one of the oldest in the city.  The theatre was designed by Italian architect Girolamo Theodoli after being commissioned by the Sforza Cesarini family.  Teatro Argentina officially opened in 1732 and has since been regarded as an architectual jewel ever since. In addition to its beauty, the opera house has also cultivated a great deal of historic importance over the years.  For example, a variety of notable premieres have taken place here including Rossini’s Barber of Seville in 1816.  The location of the theatre itself is also incredibly interesting as it is the same square where the Curia of Pompey stood in ancient times – also known as the site where Julius Cesar was assasinated during the Ides of March in 44 BC.

Where: Largo di Torre Argentina, 52

2. Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

addobbi serata di gala

(cc: @operaincasa)

Teatro dell’Opera di Roma was originally opened in 1880 with a seating capacity of over 2,200.  Famous for it’s lavish decor/design, the opera house was commissioned by Domenico Costanzi and designed by Milanese architect Achille Sfondrini. The theatre has held a prominent position in Rome’s cultural circles as it was the host of 46 premiere performances from 1880 to 1926. Although renovations have limited its orginal seating to about 1,600, the theatre is still regarded as a cornerstone of opera culture in Rome as performances continue today.

Where: Piazza Beniamino Gigli, 1

3. Teatro Quirino 

quirino

(cc: teatroquirino.it)

Teatro Quirino was built in 1871 and is located in the heart of the historic centre. It was commissioned by Prince Maffeo Sciarra who was inspired to name it after Rome’s origins – Quirinale Hill (one of the seven hills of Rome) and the mythological god Quirinus. The theatre has been tranformed over the years by various renovations, however it remains a hub for theatric arts in Rome today.

Where: Via Delle Vergini,7

4. Teatro Sistina 

sistina

(cc: ilsistina.it)

Teatro Sistina was officially inaugurated in 1949 as a cinema-theatre and was designed by Italian architect Marcello Piacentini. Although Sistina is much younger than the other theatres/opera houses on this list, it has become one of the most important theatres in Italy.  The theatre was made famous by the works of Italian playwrights Garinei and Giovannini.  It has also hosted many prominent artists, comedians and musicals over the years.

Where: Via Sistina, 129

5. Teatro Valle 

valle

(cc:italymagazine.com)

Teatro Valle was built by Italian architect Tommaso Morelli in 1726 after the Capranica family commissioned it for private use. Although the theatre has been renovated many times since its opening, it was originally designed as a classical Italian theatre – a wooden horseshoe shaped structure with 5 tiers of viewing boxes and a gallery.  Teatro Valle has been home to many notable premieres over the centuries such as works by Italian composer Gioachino Rossini.  The theatre has also become an important symbol of artistic independence in Rome since it was occupied by a group of protestors in 2011 who were arguing against the theatre’s possible privatization.

Where: Via del Teatro Valle, 21

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By |October 15th, 2016|Best places in Rome, Concerts in Rome, Events in Rome, Holiday|0 Comments
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