Rome Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour

Rome is the epitome of history itself. Long ago, there were several ancient homes where thousands of Jews were isolated for centuries. Now, almost nothing remains there. Still, if you walk through the alleys of the ghetto home to so many monuments, buildings, and narrow streets, you'll catch glimpses of Jewish history and find that some of that inheritance has passed down to their descendants even today.

Your guide will lead you into alleys of the ghetto, where you can witness traces of Imperial Rome. This includes seeing the Theatre of Marcellus, nicknamed the "Small Colosseum," and the Portico of Octavia, which is where the Jewish-Roman dish, the fish broth, originated from!

Retrace the history of the Jewish people in Rome from ancient to modern times, all the while never forgetting the victims of the Holocaust. The "stumbling stones" (concrete cubes bearing a brass plate) nailed into the floor are a palpable testimony. You'll also get the opportunity to try traditional Jewish-Roman recipes, such as scrumptious artichokes “alla giudia”, or the tart with ricotta cheese and sour cherries. See also the 19th-century synagogue and end your tour with the sound of the water of the Renaissance Turtle Fountain in Piazza Mattei.

Rome Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour

Discover Rome's vibrant and historic Jewish community on this guided walking tour that includes visits to the Teatro Marcello, Turtle Fountain, Portico d'Ottavia, and more. Your 2-hour journey covers approximately 1 mile of walking through the heart of the city’s Jewish Ghetto, ending with a taste of kosher gelato or coffee. The tour is available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Explore the narrow streets filled with over 40 shops, restaurants, and synagogues while learning about the rich history of this area, established since 1555 when Pope Paul IV forced Rome's Jewish population to live within its walls. With a knowledgeable local guide, you'll uncover hidden corners that tell stories spanning centuries. The tour includes stops at four major landmarks: Teatro Marcello, Turtle Fountain, Portico d'Ottavia, and the Great Synagogue of Rome, each offering unique insights into the community's resilience and culture.

Explore Teatro Marcello

Your tour stops at Teatro Marcello where you'll see this iconic Roman structure built in 13 BC as a model for the Colosseum. At 126 feet high, it served as a venue for gladiatorial games and theatrical performances during ancient times. Today, it's known as the 'small Colosseum' due to its resemblance to Rome’s most famous amphitheater but on a smaller scale. Visitors can spend about 15 minutes here learning about the theater's history and architecture, including its use in medieval times as a fortress for noble families. The Teatro Marcello is unique because it offers a glimpse into both ancient Roman entertainment and later historical transformations that shaped Rome’s urban landscape.

Admire Turtle Fountain

At the Turtle Fountain, guests can marvel at this charming fountain located in Piazza Mattei, built between 1588 and 1590. The fountain features four bronze turtles that sit atop its columns, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. The turtles are believed to have been added later by the sculptor Taddeo Landini as part of an elaborate restoration project. Visitors typically spend around 10 minutes here taking photos and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. This fountain stands out due to its unique animal decorations, which make it a standout landmark in Rome's bustling city center.

Stroll Through Portico d'Ottavia

Your tour continues through the stunning colonnaded Portico d'Ottavia, built between 27 and 25 BC by Augustus to honor his sister Octavia. Stretching over 400 feet long, this ancient portico has been a hub of commerce for centuries and is now home to numerous shops selling traditional Roman food and crafts. Visitors spend about 15 minutes here admiring the intricate columns and learning about its historical significance as one of Rome’s oldest public spaces. The Portico d'Ottavia is unique because it seamlessly blends ancient architecture with modern-day activities, creating a living history that tells the story of Rome's evolution.

Tour Highlights

• Stroll through Rome's Jewish Ghetto with a local guide
• Visit Teatro Marcello – nicknamed 'small Colosseum'
• Admire Turtle Fountain in Piazza Mattei, built 1588-90
• Explore Portico d'Ottavia around the Ghetto, built 27-25 BC
• End walking tour with tasty kosher gelato or coffee
• Audio guide available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese
• Enjoy historical insights at landmarks like Teatro Marcello and Turtle Fountain
• Discover hidden corners of the Jewish Ghetto including Portico d'Ottavia

Perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and culture enthusiasts, this guided walking tour provides an immersive experience through Rome's rich cultural tapestry. The 2-hour format allows you to stroll through the historic Jewish Ghetto, visit Teatro Marcello, admire Turtle Fountain, and explore Portico d'Ottavia, giving you a deep understanding of Rome’s diverse heritage while enjoying its vibrant culinary scene.