Discovering More of Rome - Part 2

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• Sacrario delle Bandiere and Surrounding Area

Located within the Vittoriano complex, the Sacrario delle Bandiere (Shrine of the Flags) is a fascinating museum dedicated to Italy’s military history. Here, you can see a vast collection of flags, military uniforms, and historical documents that tell the story of Italy's unification and its military forces. Nearby, the Altar of the Fatherland offers panoramic views of the city, making it a great spot to start your exploration of this historic area.

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• The Basilica Santa Maria in Aracoeli

Just a short walk from the Vittoriano, perched atop the Capitoline Hill, you'll find the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli. This ancient church is renowned for its beautiful frescoes, the statue of the Santo Bambino (a wooden figure of the Christ Child), and its grand staircase, which offers another breathtaking view of Rome. The church’s rich history and stunning interiors make it a must-visit for those exploring the Capitoline Hill area.

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• Theatre of Marcellus and Area Archeologica

Near the Capitoline Hill lies the Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello), an ancient open-air theater that predates the Colosseum. Built by Emperor Augustus, this impressive structure once held thousands of spectators. Today, it stands as a testament to Rome’s architectural ingenuity. Surrounding the theater is the Area Archeologica del Teatro di Marcello, where you can explore the ruins of ancient temples and monuments, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.

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• Fontanone del Gianicolo

Head to the Gianicolo Hill (Janiculum) for one of Rome’s most picturesque viewpoints. The Fontanone del Gianicolo, a grand baroque fountain, sits at the top of the hill and offers stunning views of the city below. This spot is especially magical at sunset, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

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• Villa Doria Pamphilj Park with Lake

Villa Doria Pamphilj is Rome’s largest public park, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This expansive green space is perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or picnics. The park is home to a beautiful lake, lush gardens, and the stunning Villa Doria Pamphilj, a historic villa that adds a touch of elegance to the natural surroundings. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature.

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Local Markets

To experience Rome like a local, visit one of the city’s vibrant markets. The Campo de’ Fiori Market is one of the oldest and most famous, offering fresh produce, flowers, and a variety of local delicacies. Another must-visit is the Testaccio Market, located in a traditional Roman neighborhood. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh pasta and cheese to vintage clothing and artisanal crafts. These markets are perfect for sampling Roman street food and picking up unique souvenirs.

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• Puntarelle alla Romana

Puntarelle alla Romana is a quintessential Roman salad made from the crisp, slightly bitter shoots of Catalonian chicory, dressed with anchovy, garlic, and olive oil. This refreshing dish is a perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of Roman cuisine.

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In addition to Puntarelle, don’t miss out on other local specialties like

• Abbacchio alla Romana (Roman-style lamb).

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• Bucatini all'Amatriciana: This iconic Roman pasta dish features bucatini (a thick, hollow spaghetti) tossed in a spicy tomato sauce with guanciale and Pecorino Romano. It's a perfect combination of savory, tangy, and rich flavors.

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• Porchetta: Although originally from the nearby town of Ariccia, Porchetta (slow-roasted pork seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and other herbs) is widely enjoyed in Rome, often served in a sandwich or as a main course.

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• Pizza al Taglio: Roman-style pizza, typically rectangular and sold by weight. The crust is thin and crispy, with a variety of toppings ranging from simple margherita to more elaborate combinations like potatoes and rosemary or zucchini flowers.

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• Torta della Nonna, a delicious custard-filled tart topped with pine nuts. These dishes offer a true taste of Rome’s culinary traditions.

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• Visit the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci), a peaceful park with panoramic views of the city,

• the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta, where you can peek through a keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

• The Basilica of Santa Sabina, one of Rome’s oldest churches, is also located here, offering a serene spot for reflection.

• Pyramid of Cestius and Museo della Via Ostiense

  In the Aventino district, you'll find the Pyramid of Cestius, a striking and unusual monument built as a tomb for the Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius. This ancient pyramid, dating back to 12 BC, stands out against the city’s classical architecture and is a fascinating sight to behold. Nearby, the Museo della Via Ostiense offers insights into the ancient Roman road that connected Rome to the port city of Ostia, featuring artifacts and exhibits on Rome’s transportation and trade history.

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• Circus Maximus

At the foot of the Aventine Hill lies the Circus Maximus, an ancient chariot racing stadium that once held thousands of spectators. Today, it’s a sprawling park where you can walk, relax, and imagine the grandeur of ancient Rome.

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• Rose Garden

Nearby, the Roseto Comunale (Rome’s Rose Garden) blooms with thousands of rose varieties, offering a fragrant escape in the spring and early summer.

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• Trastevere

Cross the Tiber River to reach Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming and bohemian neighborhoods. With its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and excellent restaurants, Trastevere is the perfect place to experience Rome’s local culture. Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful churches.

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Recommended Places to Eat in the Aventino Hill Area

The Aventino Hill area is a haven for food lovers, with several great spots offering authentic Roman cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some top recommendations:

• Mastro Donato Pizza Gourmet: This cozy spot, run by the son of a renowned local restaurateur, blends tradition with modern culinary flair. While their gourmet pizzas are a highlight, they also serve a variety of classic Roman dishes such as Supplì, freshly made pasta, lasagna, Fiori di Zucca (fried zucchini flowers), and their popular pizza with zucchini flowers. The eatery has a small table where you can enjoy your meal, or you can opt to take away your food and have a picnic at one of the nearby parks, like the tranquil Giardino degli Aranci on Aventine Hill.

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• Taverna Cestia: Located near the Aventine Hill, Taverna Cestia is perfect for those who love seafood. The restaurant features an ice showcase where you can select fresh fish, mushrooms, and other seasonal ingredients, which are then expertly prepared to your liking. The combination of quality ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere makes this a memorable dining spot.

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• Da Bucatino: A beloved Roman trattoria, Da Bucatino offers hearty, traditional dishes such as rabbit meat, baby pork, and the signature puntarella salad.

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To finish your meal on a high note, try their Sgroppino, a refreshing sorbet dessert made with vodka and prosecco.

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The warm, authentic ambiance makes Da Bucatino a must-visit for anyone exploring the Aventine Hill area.

• Villa San Pio Restaurant: Located within the elegant Hotel Villa San Pio, this restaurant is a hidden gem offering a delightful menu of Roman specialties. The artichokes (Carciofi) are a highlight here, prepared in both styles: Carciofi alla Romana (Roman-style, braised with herbs) and Carciofi alla Giudia (Jewish-style, deep-fried to crispy perfection).

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Another standout dish is the tender and flavorful octopus, which comes highly recommended. The serene garden setting adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.

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These dining options around the Aventino Hill area provide a delicious and authentic taste of Roman cuisine, perfect for refueling after a day of sightseeing.

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