Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Tour

Synopsis >

We will roam the maze of winding streets in the old Jewish neighborhood of Trastevere to uncover the history of a once isolated neighborhood of Rome across the Tiber River. Discover the intersection of crossroads: 21st century bohemian life and ancient Roman history right outside the Portico d’ Ottaviano. Once the center of the ghetto, the Portico is now surrounded by quiet backstreets and lively piazzas of an eclectic neighborhood.

oin us as we explore the Trastevere section of Rome, the neighborhood whose name means “across the Tiber River.” We will meander the labyrinth of winding streets and learn the history of this traditionally multi-cultural area which is now home to artists, ex-patriots and an international student population. We will enjoy the lively atmosphere of Trastevere’s streets: performance artists, comedians, fire jugglers, street vendors, jewelers, cafes and pubs. Our tour guide will share the history of the Jewish Ghetto which was centered here from the 16-19th centuries. Although the ghetto walls were torn down in 1888, its culture and stories are thriving. Discover the remains of Pompey’s Theater at Largo di Torre Argentina which is also the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination. We will visit Teatro Marcello, the open-air theater which was an urban architectural feat of its time when it was built in 13 B.C. Other highlights include Santa Maria Church and Turtle Fountain (Bernini’s turtles featured in a cozy residential piazza).