Trastevere, Rome: history and sights

As you know, all roads lead to Rome. Perhaps, someday your road will lead to the capital of Italy. The stunning city is literally filled with beautiful places and historical sights. In this article we want to talk about the popular area of Trastevere (Rome), located on the left bank of Rome. It is famous for its cobbled streets, fantastic restaurants, bars and historical monuments.

History of Trastevere

Rome is a magnificent city, famous thanks to Alexander the Great, Caesar and its rich history. The Italian capital is filled with historical sights, among which a special place is occupied by ancient quarters, each of which carries mysteries of the past.

In total there are about 35 quarters in the city, 15 of them were founded at the beginning of the last century. All of them have their own purpose: some are considered rich areas with expensive hotels, others are business centers, and some are historical and cultural.

Trastevere (Rome) is a rather modest Roman district, which up to our times managed to preserve its originality and spirit of the present Middle Ages. There are still narrow cobblestone streets that are his business card. The quarter is the best place for walks of tourists and couples. Currently, Trastevere is filled with souvenir shops, shops, restaurants, cafes and pizzerias.

It is difficult for contemporaries to imagine that at the beginning of its history (in the 1st century BC) the area was completely abandoned and no one was interested. On its territory lived the expelled Etruscans. And after a while, new Jews and Syrians began to settle here. The richest history and the presence of unique objects in the Trastevere region in Rome is due to the multinational composition of its inhabitants, belonging to different denominations.

Part of the city quarter could only become with the rule of Aurelian (it happened in the beginning of the 1st century AD), which protected the city with a wall. But its heyday Trastevere (Rome) reached during the reign of Caesar. During this period the district became popular among the rich. On its lands were built villas of noble nobles and even the mansion of the emperor himself.

In the Middle Ages, the district became an ordinary working quarter. Its inhabitants differed from other Romans in traditions and a special dialect. It was in Trastevere (Rome) that the very first street fairs and stunning poetic evenings began to be held. Moreover, local residents even began to hold their own holidays. The most important of them is Noantri, which means "we are different".

In the 70-80s of the last century, the Trastevere area in Rome became popular among emigrants and middle-class people. After that, many tourists came here. The area became more lively, it began to build new shops, cafes, attracting visitors and visitors to the city.

Modern appearance of the district

Currently, Trastevere (Rome), whose photo is given in the article, is a picturesque corner of the capital. Its romantic labyrinths of cobbled streets, shopping tents and medieval churches, tiny churches and Czech houses decorated with boxes of flowers, attract many tourists.

During its long history, the district underwent many changes, changing its appearance. And nowadays Trastevere is filled with not only ancient buildings and sights, but also decorated with modern cafes and restaurants, which give festivity to this place.

A rich history forever left its imprint in the shape of the quarter. The unusual and unique architecture of the area gives it a special charm. Probably, it is for this reason that tourists will certainly try to stroll through the streets of Trastevere (Rome). What to see in this nice corner of Rome? The answer is simple: everything! Here, every corner is filled with sights and secrets.

Santa Maria in Trastevere in Rome

The Trastevere area is a place with its stunning energy and beauty. The most popular place in this area, which is also its center, is St. Mary's Square. It also represents an interest in what belongs to the oldest sights of the city.

Here come the tourists and the Romans themselves, to admire the stunning mosaics of Pietro Cavallini and the octagonal fountain.

Perhaps the main attraction of the area is the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere. It was founded in the third century by Saint Callicxtus, and construction was completed already with the Pope Julius I. Over many centuries of the temple's existence it was restored many times and rebuilt. But still managed to preserve its unique appearance.

Scientists suggest that the church was one of the first temples in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It gained fame due to the fact that it was the place where Mass was first openly celebrated. The history of the church is shrouded in all sorts of legends. One of them says that even in ancient times on the day of the birth of Christ in an inconspicuous place, Trastevere unexpectedly began to beat a spring with pure water.

The Jewish community interpreted this as a special sign, so much later it was in this place that the church was erected. That image of the building that we see now was created in the middle of the twelfth century by the decree of Innocent II. According to experts, the earlier building was completely destroyed by the personal order of the pope because it was in this place that his political opponent was secretly buried.

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere (Rome)

What to see in Trastevere? Of course, Santa Cecilia deserves attention. In the fifth century AD, a basilica was built here, which was dedicated to Roman Cecilia. Believers tell the legend that the temple was erected on the site where once stood the house of Cecilia. A martyr, ranked as a saint, is the patroness of music. The ancient Romanesque building was significantly altered in the ninth century, and after another seven hundred years, Santa Cecilia was completely rebuilt.

Inside the temple to this day, preserved wall paintings Pietro Cavallini (XIII century), marble columns, statuettes of angels. The chapel is decorated with works by Luigi Vanvitelli and Antonio del Massaro. The main value of the temple is the sculpture of Cecilia itself, which was created by the master of the late Renaissance, Stefano Moderna.

Museum in Trastevere

In the capital of Italy, almost every street has its own history and some mystery. Not less interesting for tourists and the Trastevere district in Rome. Attractions located on its territory are worthy of close attention.

To get acquainted with the history of the area, and the whole of Rome, it is worth visiting the museum in Trastevere. It is located in the square of St. Egidio. In its walls are collected artifacts, reflecting the difficult life of the Romans in the XVIII-XIX centuries. This period was not easy for the whole of Italy. In the exposition of the museum there are art objects, paintings, staged episodes from the life of different strata of the population.

Temple of San Pietro

The center of the historical district is the Pishinula Square, the main part of which is still paved with paving stones. On it there is a temple with the same name and a large number of entertainment facilities.

Tourists should see the church of San Pietro in Montorio. The Catholic church has preserved in its walls the real masterpieces of architecture, painting, art and sculpture. The architecture of the building itself is a striking example of the Renaissance style.

Botanical Garden

A green oasis in the center of Trastevere is the botanical garden. On its territory you can admire a large collection of Mediterranean plants. It is located on the lands of the old villa Corsini. In the eighteenth century, the Queen of Sweden lived here Christina. Since 1883 the villa is owned by the Italian state. It is from this time that an extensive garden (12 hectares) is open to visitors. Its highlight is the Garden of fragrances and the Eastern Corner.

Villas and palaces of Trastevere

Tourists should know that the Trastevere area in Rome (testimonials confirm this) is interesting not only for temples and churches. On its beautiful streets there are many ancient villas, fountains and palaces.

Villa Fornesina is an example of Renaissance architecture. It was built as a country house for a famous banker, but later the estate was taken over by Cardinal Forensi. Villa is famous for the fact that Rafael, Peruzzi and Sodom worked on her interiors.

A few steps away is the Palazzo Corsini alla Lungara. The palace was built in the fifteenth century. But in 1736 it was purchased by representatives of the Corsini family. During the occupation of Italy by the troops of Napoleon in this building lived the brother of the famous commander.

At present the building belongs to the state, and within its walls there is an art gallery and a library. Everyone can see here the works of Rubens, Caravaggio and other famous masters.

Very often Villa Shar is called the green heart of Trastevere. Local residents are very fond of this place, although in recent years it is in some desolation. Once there were the famous gardens of Caesar. In the sixteenth century, the local nobility appreciated the beauty of the places, and since then, villas have been built on the lands. The territory of the estate is interesting because on it, besides the building, there are a beautiful park, sculptures and fountains.

Other attractions of the area

On the territory of the district a triumphal arch was built, called the Septimius Gate. This building indicates the boundary on which once passed the antique wall, guarding Rome.

On the territory of Trastevere, many fountains are built, giving coolness on hot days. One of them is Del-Aqua-Paola. It is located near the church of Santo Pietro. Local residents gave the fountain a pretty nickname Fontanone. It was built in 1612 at the behest of Pope Paul V. Flaminio Ponzo and Giovanni Fontana worked on his project.

Restaurants

We can say that for tourists the restaurants of Trastevere (Rome) are the visiting card of the district. Here on every street you will find cozy cafes, pizzerias, taverns and shops with souvenirs, as well as street musicians.

Local restaurants delight visitors with fine national cuisine. The best institutions of Trastevere are recognized as:

1. Popi Popi is a restaurant with a fabulous atmosphere and delicious cuisine. The pride of the establishment is a very special pizza, perfectly cooked meat and traditional pasta in Italy.
2. Ivo F Trastevere is the best place for connoisseurs of Italian pizza. Real professionals prepare it in special ovens, which give the dish a special exquisite taste. There are always a lot of people in this institution, which once again confirms its incredible popularity.
3. Carlo Menta is one of the best restaurants in Trastevere. Guests of the establishment can appreciate the perfect combination of traditional dishes and their cost.
4. Casetta di Trastevere - a restaurant famous for interesting drinks and cocktails, as well as stunningly tasty dishes.
5. Alle Fratte di Trastevere is an excellent institution with good national cuisine, which became famous for its delicious desserts and coffee.

Walking along the streets of Trastevere, be sure to check one of the listed institutions and appreciate the taste of real Italian dishes. After all, only in Italy can they cook so well.

Swap meet

If you are not too attracted to visiting the historical attractions of the area, then perhaps you want to go to the famous flea market with the beautiful name Porta Portese. There are always going to be real lovers of antiques and unusual things. Every Sunday tourists come here in search of unique antique furniture, dishes and clothes.

How to get to Trastevere?

Every tourist who plans a trip to the Italian capital, the question arises: "Where is the area of Trastevere in Rome? How to get to it? "Experienced tourists, of course, recommend immediately to buy a map of Rome. It is very useful not only for you when you search for the area, but also helps you to orient yourself while you walk along Trastevere (Rome). Getting to the old district depends on where you stay in Rome. It is worth remembering that Trastevere is located on the west coast of the Tiber River, occupying the eastern slope of the Gianicola hill. It is not difficult to get here, as the transport connection in Rome is perfectly arranged. The easiest way is to take trams No. 8 and 3 or the metro.

In addition, you can walk to Trastevere and walk along the bridges of Cestio and Fabriccio through the island of Tiberina or on the Sisto bridge from the palace of Farnese. Tourists who visit the area for the first time should also think about how to get out of it. After all, the entire Trastevere consists of a network of narrow streets, similar one to another, they are very easy to get lost. Independently you can navigate through the map, choosing the main landmarks of large temples and squares.

Reviews of tourists about Trastevere

Tourists who visited Trastevere (Rome), whose reviews are mentioned in the article, highly recommend visiting everyone here. The area is literally filled with a special atmosphere of stunning comfort and an eternal holiday. Narrow streets are endlessly intertwined with each other, creating the impression of infinity, their silence is replaced by the noise of squares with stunning fountains and temples.

The eventful history of Rome left its mark on the appearance of Trastevere. After looking at the temples, basilicas and visiting the museum, you can plunge into the atmosphere of long-gone eras. The multinational composition of the inhabitants of the district made its contribution to the culture, architecture of the houses of the district, thanks to which the Trastevere is filled with a very special color. In order not to hurry to see the most interesting places of the quarter, it is worthwhile to highlight far more than one day. And ideally you can settle in one of the cozy houses of the district - so tourists are advised. On the territory of the block there are small beautiful hotels. But they are not so many as in other areas of Rome. However, if you want, you can still find a suitable room in one of the hotels. In the daytime and in the evenings, Trastevere has a completely different appearance. With the onset of twilight, its streets are dressed in bright lights, giving a romantic atmosphere. Numerous cafes are filled with local residents and tourists, tired of the day from walking. In the opinion of the guests of Rome, it is in Trastevere that one should taste national dishes. In local restaurants, it is amazingly tasty, and nowhere else will you find such delicious pizza and desserts.

Trastevere and the Legend

The whole area of Trastevere is shrouded in secrets and legends, and literally every building has an unusual story. Which legends are true, and which are just fictions, it is difficult to judge. One of them, for example, tells about the meeting of the famous artist Raphael with Margarita Luti. In 1508, he worked on the painting of Villa Farnesina. One day he saw a girl in the window of a neighboring house combing her hair. It is believed that it was Margaret Luti who later became the prototype of the famous "Sistine Madonna", as well as "Donna Velata" and many more works of the master. An interesting fact is that local guides with special pride demonstrate vacationers that window in the villa, in which Rafael first saw the girl who inspired him.

Instead of an afterword

Arriving in Rome, try to find time for walking around the most charming and interesting area of the capital. Local attractions and restaurants offering delicious dishes will forever conquer your heart.