Rome’s 4 commonly overlooked treasures
Rome—the name alone conjures images of the Colosseum, the iconic Spanish Steps and the Sistine Chapel. These famous historical monuments should definitely be on your list when touring the Eternal City, especially if it’s your first visit.
But sometimes famous attractions can be completely overwhelming. Long lines and massive crowds can get tiring after a few days.
When you’ve had your fill of “must-see” Rome, head to these four wonderful sights, which are equally historic and beautiful, but too often overlooked. You’ll escape the masses and get a better sense of the city, and probably create some of the best memories of your trip!
Related: Top 5 Vatican attractions | 25 Free things to do in Rome
Villa Doria Pamphili
This 17th century villa is part of the largest landscaped public park in Rome, and it is absolutely stunning. Locals know Villa Pamphili is the place to be in the summer, and they’ll spend entire days lounging in the grass around the villa, snacking on picnics and drinking wine while children play in the fountains and gardens.
The park is located in Monteverde, on the outskirts of Rome (near the Vatican), so tourists often miss it. It’s well worth the trek though, for the ponds full of ducks, the elaborate gardens, and the striking villa itself.
Basilica of San Clemente
Rome is home to more than 900 churches, so it’s understandable that tourists miss most of them. One of the most ornate, but often overlooked, churches is the Basilica of San Clemente, more than 2,000 years old and full of mesmerizing mosaics. Sitting on a hill about 300 yards from the Colosseum, the Basilica was named after Pope St. Clement, who died in 100 AD.
There is plenty of historical information for visitors, and architecture lovers will go crazy for the high ceilings and sprawling courtyard. Inside, the mosaics and frescoes rival even those of St. Peter’s Basilica!
Pyramid of Cestius
You don’t have to go to Egypt to see a pyramid. Rome has its own, built around 18-12 BC as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a member of the Septemviri Epulonum, one of the four religious corporations in Rome at the time.
The Pyramid of Cestius is near Ostiense, which is a bit outside of the center and not often frequented by tourists. Those who do see they pyramid usually marvel at it from outside, but it’s what’s inside that makes it even more fascinating. The remains of frescoes line the burial chamber, as well as dedicatory inscriptions.
Next to the pyramid, the Protestant Cemetery, the final resting place of John Keats and many others, is also worth a stop.
Giardino degli Aranci
The orange garden in Rome is one of the best places to visit for sweeping views of the city in a relaxed setting. While the Gianicolo hill on the other side of Rome is famous for stunning vistas that inspire marriage proposals, it’s usually crowded and noisy. This little urban oasis, however, still provides the breathtaking views but in a more intimate setting. It’s one of the most romantic spots in Rome.
Bring a bottle of wine and visit at the golden hour for the best photos. Sometimes, there’s even live music played for a small audience of locals.
Your favorite secret spots?
Did we miss one of your favorite under-the-radar attractions in Rome? Let us know in the comments section below!
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Great suggestions! I’ll be sure to check them out the next time I’m in Rome. My favorite hidden spots are actually some of the neighborhoods where many tourists don’t frequent. Great restaurants and shops can be found if you take a stroll between historic sites instead of taking a bus or the metro. This way you can admire the city and the people on foot for a much more intimate feel.
Thanks for the info!