Unusual Things to Do in Rome

Rome is known for its ancient ruins and religious landmarks. The Colosseum and the Vatican attract millions every year, but there’s more to discover. Step off the beaten path and explore some unusual attractions around the Eternal City.

Explore the Protestant Cemetery

Tucked away in the Testaccio district lies the Non-Catholic Cemetery. It’s a serene and beautiful resting place for expatriates, artists, and poets. Keats and Shelley are among the notable figures buried here. The cemetery is a quiet escape from Rome’s bustling streets, offering an introspective atmosphere. Marble sculptures and lush greenery provide a backdrop to centuries of history.

Visit the Capuchin Crypt

The Capuchin Crypt brings the macabre to life. Located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, the crypt displays the bones of over 3,000 friars. Skulls and skeletons create works of art, arranged into intricate patterns and designs on the walls and ceilings. Each room tells a silent story of mortality. It’s a haunting reminder of life’s impermanence, set against the backdrop of religious devotion.

Discover Quartiere Coppedè

This neighborhood is an architectural treasure trove. It blends Art Nouveau with Baroque, Medieval, and Ancient Greek styles. Gino Coppedè, the architect, created a whimsical world of eclectic buildings. The Frog Fountain marks the entrance to this unique area. As you wander, you’ll find buildings adorned with mythical creatures, frescoed facades, and eye-catching details. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, a stark contrast to the uniform Renaissance and Baroque buildings seen elsewhere in Rome.

Walk the Appian Way

The ancient Appian Way was one of Rome’s earliest roads. Today, it offers a tranquil escape for walkers and cyclists. The road stretches through the Roman countryside, past ruins and historic monuments. Tombs and mausoleums line the path, remnants of the city’s imperial past. The original Roman paving stones can still be seen in some sections. This historic route is perfect for a leisurely afternoon, away from the crowds.

Admire the Street Art in Ostiense

Rome might not be the first place that comes to mind for street art, but the Ostiense district is changing that. Once an industrial area, Ostiense has transformed into a vibrant canvas for street artists. Massive murals cover the sides of buildings, warehouses, and bridges. Artists from around the world have left their mark here. The art reflects contemporary themes and adds a colorful layer to Rome’s cultural scene. Guided tours are available to learn more about the artists and their work.

Visit the Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory

This small and peculiar museum is located in the church of Sacro Cuore in the Prati district. It features a collection of objects said to bear the marks of souls trapped in purgatory. Each item has an intriguing backstory, with fingerprints or burn marks as evidence. The museum challenges visitors to consider the spiritual experiences behind these items. It’s an unusual glimpse into how the living honor the dead.

See the Pyramid of Cestius

Rome is home to a surprising Egyptian-style pyramid. The Pyramid of Cestius is an ancient tomb built for Gaius Cestius, a Roman magistrate. It stands out among the city’s ruins, a testament to Rome’s fascination with Egyptian culture during the first century BCE. The pyramid’s pristine white marble exterior catches the eye from afar. It’s located near Porta San Paolo, offering a unique stop on any Roman itinerary.

Explore Villa Doria Pamphili

The largest landscaped park in Rome, Villa Doria Pamphili is a green oasis. Forget the crowded city parks like Villa Borghese, this is where locals go to relax. The villa’s grounds include lush gardens, wooded areas, and open fields. A grand villa overlooks the park, though it remains closed to the public. It’s perfect for picnicking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature in urban Rome.

Unlock History at Palazzo Doria Pamphilj

This opulent private palace houses a stunning art collection. It’s lesser-known compared to the Vatican Museums or Borghese Gallery, but equally impressive. Works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Titian adorn the walls. The family-owned palazzo offers insight into the taste and wealth of Rome’s noble houses. The decor and furnishings further enhance the narrative of a bygone era of grandeur.

Experience the magic of the Aventine Keyhole

At the top of the Aventine Hill, there’s a secret view. This keyhole is part of the Knights of Malta’s headquarters. When you peer through, you’re treated to a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica. The location and perspective are unexpected, offering a unique photographic opportunity. The walk up Aventine Hill, bordered by lush gardens and orange trees, adds to the charm of this hidden gem.

Enter the Baths of Caracalla

Once a public bathing complex, the Baths of Caracalla are now impressive ruins. They offer a different perspective on ancient Roman life. The site includes remnants of the bathing areas, exercise yards, and decorative mosaics. Exploring the ruins gives a sense of the grandeur of Roman engineering. Events like opera performances are occasionally held here, adding to its allure.

Visit the Basilica di San Clemente

San Clemente is a fascinating multi-layered church. It includes structures from different periods. The current basilica stands on top of a fourth-century church. Below that lies an ancient Mithraic temple. Visitors can descend through history, exploring various architectural styles and religious practices. Each layer reveals a piece of Rome’s complex past.

See the Galleria Spada

This palace houses a fine art collection and an intriguing optical illusion. The gallery displays works by Italian masters such as Caravaggio and Rubens. A highlight is Francesco Borromini’s false perspective in the courtyard. What appears to be a long arched corridor is actually a clever trompe-l’œil, demonstrating Baroque artistry and illusion. It’s a curious example of the playful creativity of the period.

Discover the Centrale Montemartini

A former power plant turned museum, Centrale Montemartini is an example of adaptive reuse. The industrial space houses ancient sculptures from the Capitoline Museums. The contrast between cold machinery and classical art is striking. It’s an unusual venue to appreciate Roman and Greek statues, offering a fresh take on archaeological display.

Go Underground at the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

The Scala Sancta is a revered site near this basilica. These holy stairs are said to have been climbed by Jesus before his trial. Pilgrims ascend on their knees as an act of devotion. Adjacent to the basilica is an ancient baptistery and a beautiful Gothic cloister. The complex is filled with rich art and religious significance, offering much to explore.

Wander through EUR

The Esposizione Universale Roma (EUR) district is a testament to fascist modern architecture. Built for a 1942 world’s fair that never occurred, it’s full of grandiose structures. The architecture emphasizes symmetry and monumental scale. Highlights include the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, known as the Square Colosseum. This district stands apart from the traditional imagery of Rome, providing insight into the city’s mid-20th-century ambitions.

Discover the Magic Door

The Porta Alchemica, or Magic Door, captivates visitors with its mysterious symbols and inscriptions. Located in Piazza Vittorio, it hints at alchemical experiments from the 17th century. Only one door remains from a villa dedicated to alchemy. It offers a glimpse into the mystical pursuits that captured the imaginations of scholars and nobles of the era.

Rome has no shortage of fascinating experiences beyond its famous landmarks. These unusual attractions offer a different perspective on the city’s rich history and vibrant present. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient mysteries or modern art, there’s something for every curious traveler in Rome.

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