Campitelli district is considered to be the largest open-air museum out of all Roman districts. One may consider this is due to the numerous historical sites located on its territory. And yes, Colosseum takes up the central position in this list. So, make sure to pack well before starting this memorable journey across the ancient district of Campitelli.

History

Campitelli district is one of the oldest Roman neighborhoods. It takes its name after the Capitoline hill it resides on (Capitolium), where once Rome’s major temple dedicated to Jupiter Optimus Maximus stood. Despite this, this Roman neighborhood is the least populated, amounting to 600 residents. This is due to the fact of many governmental buildings and historical sites being located on its territory.

Modern history

Today, in Campitelli district tourists will find tons of historical attractions. As it was mentioned before, this district hosts the largest number of historical sites on its territory. Therefore, be ready to immerse yourself into a real Roman holiday.

What to See

Following is the list of places to visit in Campitelli district:

Colosseum

The Colosseum or Coliseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is perhaps the greatest construction in the history and culture of Rome. Located to the south of the central part of the Eternal City, just east to the Roman Forum, the Colosseum has long been served as the most prestigious place for entertainment in the capital and empire for centuries.

Since many books and movies already have been dedicated to this marvelous historical monument, in this article, it would be necessary to just go through the most important points. The Colosseum was created around AD 70-72 by the Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to Roman people. The building was able to accommodate an average of 50 to 80 thousand visitors.

Initially a gladiator fight theatre, in the 5th century the Colosseum hosted only wild animals fight. This is due to the final turn of Rome to Christianity. In the middle of the 18th century, Pope Benedict XIV declared the Colosseum a holy place for the Catholic Church. Thus, it resulted in numerous excavation and restoration works carried out throughout the 19th century onwards. Nowadays, the Colosseum is one of the most famous historical sites of Rome. Every day, thousands of tourists visit Roman amphitheater and the surrounding area, while the average annual flow of people reaches several millions.

• Webpage: www.coopculture.it
• Read about how to buy tickets to the Colosseum
• Tickets: 16 euro (include the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum)
• Note: the ticket is active for 48 hours.
• Address: Piazza del Colosseo

Arch of Constantine

This triumphal arch was constructed with the aim of commemorating the victory of the Emperor Constantine over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312. Many would be interested to know that this is the last of existing triumphal arches in Rome. The Arch of Constantine is 21 meters high, 29.5 meters wide and 7.4 meters deep. It is located next to the Colosseum and marks the beginning of Via Triumphalis, the main entrance point of emperors coming to Rome.

• Address: Via di San Gregorio, 00186

Piazza del Campidoglio

Designed by talented Michelangelo, Piazza del Campidoglio (Capitoline square) has rather interesting trapezoidal form. This decision was taken by Michelangelo with the aim of visually increasing the size of a square. Today, Piazza del Campidoglio is a museum complex (Capitoline museum), consisting of three buildings surrounding the perimeter of square. Those buildings are: Palazzo Nuovo, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Senatorio.

• Address: Piazza del Campidoglio 00186
• Book a private guided tour to the Capitoline Museums
• Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, from 9 am to 8 pm
• Ticket: adults – 15 euro, EU citizens (18-25) – 13 euro, first Sunday of each month – free entry.

Where to eat

Following is the list of best places where to eat in Campitelli district:

Pizza Al Massimo

You definetly cannot explore the city with an empty stomach. So, Al Massimo is a perfect spot to stop by. Grab your favorite taste of piazza and off you go to continue your journey. Tourists are also to be informed that Al Massimo presents a variety of vegan and vegetarian friendly options.

• Address: Via Dei Cerchi 55, 00186

InRoma Restaurant

InRoma Restaurant proudly claims having the best carbonara in the world. Come and check for yourself, but make sure to book the place before as there are ususally crowds of people in there. Another bonus is that the restaurant, according to the information provided on their webpage, is always open, so do not be afraid to stay late.

• Webpage: www.inroma.eu
• Address: Via dei Fienili 56, 00186

Gelateria Vacanze Romane

Stop by Gelateria Vacanze Romane and feel as you are on the set of the origianl movie with Audrey Hepburn. This gelato place offers wide range of unique flavors you will never regret trying.

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GelateriaVacanzeRomane
• Address: Piazza d’Aracoeli 9, 00186