New trails reveal Rome's hidden gems amidst tourist influx
About 32 million tourists and pilgrims are expected during the upcoming Holy Year in the Eternal City, which is already struggling with excessive tourism. The authorities of Rome have presented an initiative promoting lesser-known corners of the city and its surroundings.
25 November 2024 08:09
"Unexpected Itineraries of Rome" is the name of the initiative prepared for tourists ahead of the upcoming Holy Year. Two of the seven routes are already ready.
Alternatives for tourists tired of crowds
In the face of the growing problem of excessive tourism, Roman authorities have directed travellers' attention to less frequently visited places.
Two sightseeing routes are now available. The first leads to the archaeological site of Gabii, located about 19 kilometres from Rome along the ancient Prenestina road. Once one of Latium's most important political and cultural centres, its origins date back to the 9th century BC. Excavations have uncovered remnants of walls and a temple. The city flourished during the Republican period, and its decline began in the 1st century BC, after which the area became a site for volcanic tuff extraction.
The second route takes you to the small town of San Vittorino, about 30 kilometres from the centre of Rome. Visitors can admire medieval architecture, including the Barberini castle and picturesque waterfalls, which are among the town's main attractions.
Unique but lesser-known places
The remaining five routes include places such as the Roman district of Esquilino with the historic Acquario Romano in neoclassical style, the Almone River area, and the Garbatella district with its distinctive Gasometro - an iron cylindrical structure from the 1930s where festivals and exhibitions are held.
The following paths lead through the Tor Marancia district, known for its numerous murals, the Park of the Aqueducts, and the historic Fort Bravetta, a site of executions during Italian fascism and the German occupation during World War II.
Interactive information boards and multimedia applications detailing their history have been prepared to facilitate visits to these places. An increase in public transport services to these locations has also been planned.
Roberto Gualtieri, the mayor of Rome, expressed a desire to highlight the historical and cultural treasures found in every district of the capital, aiming to share them with both the global audience and the residents of Rome.
