The itinerary runs through one of the quarters richest in history but now also one of the liveliest.
The Roman age is clearly visible with the exceptional Pyramid of Caius Cestius, but also with the city walls and the gate from which the Via Ostiense, the artery connecting the city and the port of Ostia, departed. At that time Testaccio was the area dedicated to the transport, unloading and storage of merchandise for the capital of the empire. It is no coincidence that the symbol of the quarter is the “Monte dei Cocci”: the amphorae that could not be reused were reduced to fragments and accumulated in layers until they created a veritable hill, the first trash dump in history, a place that has provided archaeologists with a huge amount of information about trade in the ancient world. Instead, the evocative Protestant cemetery, which stands out for its tranquillity and Grand Tour atmosphere, and what was once Europe's first and most technologically-advanced abattoir, now converted into a museum and cultural centre, take us back to 19th-century Rome. But Testaccio's history does not end there: it is now one of the main Street Art areas, where well-known contemporary artists have expressed themselves with wonderful murals; it is the site of one of the best local markets in the city, where plenty of local street food can be enjoyed; and finally, it is one of the movida quarters where young people come to enjoy themselves in the late evening hours.
The visit is organised by AGTAR-Associazione Guide Turistiche Abilitate Roma (Association of Qualified Tourist Guides Rome), the largest association of guides in Lazio, which proposes a number of specific itineraries for those who want to admire Rome and its surroundings while walking in the open air and at the same time increase their knowledge of the river.
The visits respect the philosophy of the Tiberland DMO: to make known sites of exceptional interest but different from those crowded by mass tourism; to promote open-air itineraries and interaction with the city and the population; to promote responsible and quality tourism, respecting the land and the local economy.
All of this is carried out to the highest quality standards: visits are conducted only by licensed tourist guides, professionals certified by the professional association AGTAR.
The guide adapts explanations and timing to the visitors, to offer an optimal experience, which varies according to age and needs.
Services
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Visits
Available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese
Additional Info
- The visit takes place outside: there is no entry to places and monuments with a ticket to pay.
- The prices refer to the fee for the guide.
- Transport, any entrance tickets and reservations, any radio / earphones for groups, any on-site drinks and any other extras are not included.
- Payment - by credit card or bank transfer or cash - will be made directly to the guide.
- The visits begin at a meeting point in the area of the chosen itinerary.
