Centrale MontemartiniĪ treasure of a gallery, Centrale Montemartini is an awe-inspiring curation of Ancient Roman artwork in a setting that juxtaposes its classical collection. Marked by a tree, the site is now a serendipitous stray-cat sanctuary. Only uncovered during Mussolini’s vast building phases, the site also reveals Pompey’s long-lost theatre (still partially covered by the streets above) which Plutarch tells us is the site of Julius Caesar’s untimely death. In the heart of frenetic Roman life, next to a row of bus stops, is this imposing archaeological site made up of of four Republican era (2nd to 4th centuries BC) temples. So we’ve set to bring you the undiscovered Rome – the best food, bars, heritage and oddities that will allow you to really get the best out of your visit. To walk on the ancient paving slabs once betrodden by Caesar, Augustus and Mark Antony, makes any history buff weak at the knees. Luckily, Rome has been thoroughly unpicked by a tangle of guidebooks and visitors – there are clear bucket-list wonders, like the sublime majesty of the Trevi Fountain or the breathtaking archaeology at the Forum or Pantheon. Narrow streets uncover hidden, buzzing enotecas, whilst cosy trattorias and charming pasticceria entice with their delicious wares.
From the buzz of mopeds to the tempting coffee aromas that sift heavily from a host of classic espresso bars, to the startling sprawl of ancient Roman ruins that pierce the city and halt its modernity, Rome is a treasured hotbed of fervent passion and restless culture.