Things About Rome You May Not Know About

Rome, the City of Eternal Glory, is one of the most-visited cities worldwide. From great pieces of ruins to majestic churches and museums considered world class, there is never a lack of things to see and do. However, while many visitors throng the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain, Rome has so much more for you than what these tourist places can give. Be it a secret treasure that has been hidden from the crowd, or an unexpected cultural quirk, here’s what you did not know about Rome in order to better appreciate the ancient city.

The Tranquil Glory of Aventine Hill

While most visitors to Rome know about its Seven Hills, few make it to Aventine Hill, one of the more serene destinations in town, which still presents one of the city’s more vivid views. This is one of the more hidden hills in the southern portion of city and is known for its beautifully kept gardens, beautiful Basilica of Santa Sabina, and secret keyhole.

As one peers through the Knights of Malta keyhole, it reveals a perfect view of St. Peter’s Basilica. The frame of this little treasure adorns lush greenery that most people walking past usually do not notice.

The Magic of Jubilee 2025

Not a secret, but the Jubilee Year 2025 is sure to leave a mark if one plans to visit Rome in the near future. Declared by Pope Francis, this special year will be called when millions of pilgrims will be attracted toward the city. It shall be, finally, a year of spiritual rejuvenation, indulgence, and celebration for Catholics everywhere. What many don’t know is that the Jubilee also sets off improvements in infrastructures all over Rome, starting from restorations in churches down to improvement in public transport, thereby bringing out the beauties and the accessibility of the city.

The Small Island of Isola Tiberina

Isola Tiberina is a small island located in the heart of Rome on the Tiber River. It is an island so small, yet full of history and mystery. Not so much visited by tourists, it actually carries much importance in Roman history, especially since it serves as a center for healing, for medicine. It has been associated with medicine and healing since ancient times and is home to one of the oldest hospitals in Rome, Fatebenefratelli.

The Time Capsule of Villa Torlonia

While the great many crowds passing through Rome’s lovely parks, among which is the Villa Borghese, are much better known, it is a pity that the public, since its ill luck and change of fortune, only now comes to visit such a long-deserted and forgotten aristocratic residence turned public park. What distinguishes this park is its curiously bizarre architecture, especially the whimsical Casina delle Civette or House of Owls. With stained-glass windows, this building appears as better suited to a fairy tale than it would to some part of a Roman estate.

It also boasts some interesting political history as it was the place of residence of Mussolini during the fascist regime. Today, it is a tranquil retreat with lush gardens and quirkily beautiful architecture.

Midnights at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

Everybody knows that opera comes from Italy, but I’m willing to bet you didn’t know that Rome even puts a little twist into the original form of this activity. Here, the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma occasionally stages some midnight shows during summer. This kind of midnight show definitely brings a different feeling to opera, since the performances coincides with the magic of the Roman night.

 Final Thoughts

The treasures of Rome aren’t only its landmarks. Rich history and vivid culture bring hidden gems and surprising experiences that are to be found around every corner. ancient ruins under a church; street food unlike anywhere else; or passing through a secret keyhole for that perfect view – and, yet again, Rome’s a city constantly rewarding the curious traveler. And if you’re there during the Jubilee in 2025, you will experience another layer of Rome’s eternal charm.

So, accept the unexpected surprises, and Rome will always keep surprising you in ways you never imagined it could.