5 (2)
Rome
Jewish Ghetto History Tour: Rome's Ancient Story
150
Overview
The Historical Tour of the Jewish Ghetto takes guests through Rome's Jewish Quarter, a place filled with big changes and comebacks for over 2,000 years. This walking tour shows how the Jewish community has lived in this special part of the city, also called the Ghetto.
Walk where important events happened, starting at the Portico d'Ottavia. The tour goes through old, small streets that show what the Ghetto looked like long ago. Guests can follow the history and traditions in Piazza Giudea and Piazza delle Cinque Scole. They will see how the Synagogue represents a time of getting freedom, and also remember the sad times of Nazi round-ups. The tour ends where people have recently died. Key stops include Tiber Island, Portico d'Ottavia, Piazza Mattei, Piazza delle Cinque Scole, Great Synagogue of Rome, and the Former Jewish Ghetto Area.
Along the way, the tour guide will point out places where movies were filmed, because the Jewish Quarter is a popular spot for filmmakers. This tour includes the cost of renting radios so everyone can hear the guide. It doesn't include food, drinks, or personal expenses. The tour is a great way to learn about Jewish history and culture in Rome. With expert guides and a focus on important locations, this experience is sure to be memorable. 
Highlights
Discover Ancient History: Explore the 2,000-year-old story of Rome's Jewish community.
Walk Through the Jewish Quarter: See the old streets and important places in the Ghetto.
Learn About Traditions: Follow the cultural heritage in famous piazzas.
Visit Key Landmarks: See the Synagogue and memorial sites.
Hear Movie History: Find out where movies were filmed in the Jewish Quarter.
Radios Included: Everyone can hear the guide with provided radios.
Sentiment Analysis
Visitors generally praise the tour's insightful exploration of the Jewish Ghetto's history and the guide's expertise, although some desire a more relaxed pace.
Customers enjoyed learning about the rich history and culture of the Jewish Ghetto.
Many appreciated the guide's knowledge and storytelling.
Visitors found the tour to be a meaningful and educational experience.
The tour's route through the historical landmarks was a highlight for many.
Some found the tour's pace to be a bit fast.
A few wished for more time at specific sites.
The Journey
Tiber Island
Begin your exploration on Tiber Island, Rome's only river island, strategically positioned between Trastevere and the former Jewish Ghetto. Historically a place of healing with ties to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, the island now hosts the Fatebenefratelli Hospital, continuing its tradition of care. Cross the ancient Ponte Fabricio, one of Rome's oldest bridges, and absorb the unique atmosphere of this tranquil refuge, the perfect starting point for understanding Rome's layered history, including the profound influence of its Jewish community.
Portico d'Ottavia
Uncover the layers of history at the Portico d'Ottavia, a testament to Rome's architectural grandeur and evolving uses. Originally built by Augustus for his sister Octavia, this ancient structure transformed into a fish market during the Middle Ages. Imagine the bustling scene as vendors hawked their wares within the shadow of these classical ruins. Explore the evocative remains and visualize how centuries of Roman life have unfolded within its walls, from imperial splendor to the vibrant chaos of a marketplace.
Piazza Mattei
Discover the enchanting Piazza Mattei, a hidden gem in Rome, dominated by the Fontana delle Tartarughe (Turtle Fountain). Commissioned by Muzio Mattei and designed by Giacomo della Porta, the fountain features playful bronze turtles, added later by either Bernini or Landini. Learn about the Mattei family, whose influence shaped the surrounding neighborhood, and marvel at the elegance and artistry of this Baroque masterpiece, a delightful respite from the city's bustle.
Piazza delle Cinque Scole
Reflect on the history of Piazza delle Cinque Scole, a place that once housed five synagogues, serving as the heart of Rome's Jewish Ghetto. Today, the Fontana del Pianto (Fountain of Tears) stands as a poignant reminder of the community's struggles. Explore the area and learn about the vanished palace that gave the square its name, replaced by modern buildings, while contemplating the vibrant religious and cultural life that once thrived here. The fountain is a quiet but powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience.
Great Synagogue of Rome
Witness the imposing Great Synagogue of Rome, a symbol of the Jewish community's resilience and rebirth after the demolition of the Ghetto and Rome's designation as the capital. Completed in 1904, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. Admire its distinctive Art Nouveau and Babylonian-inspired design from the outside and reflect on the transformation of the neighborhood following Roma Capitale. Note: Internal visits to the synagogue are not included in this itinerary.
Former Jewish Ghetto Area
Conclude your journey with a solemn reflection on the tragic events of the Holocaust that impacted Rome's Jewish community. Explore the streets of the former Ghetto, a place that witnessed unimaginable suffering during the racial laws and German occupation. While this itinerary does not include a visit to the Shoah Foundation Museum, take a moment to remember the victims and honor the survivors, acknowledging the enduring impact of this dark chapter in history and celebrating the community's ongoing fight for justice and remembrance.
Know Before You Go
This historical walking tour includes the cost of renting radios. It does not include personal expenses, food, or drinks. Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. The meeting point is at a central location in Rome, and the tour concludes near the Jewish Ghetto area. The tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and some uneven surfaces.
Hot Tip
Many visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Some reviews suggest bringing water, especially during the warmer months. Also, be prepared to walk and stand for an extended amount of time.
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