JEWISH GHETTO WALKING TOUR

Roman-Jewish cuisine

As you walk further into the Ghetto, you will notice the distinct character of the neighborhood. Narrow, winding lanes are filled with kosher restaurants, bakeries, and shops selling Jewish artifacts. Don't miss out on trying some delicious Roman-Jewish cuisine, such as "carciofi alla giudia" (Jewish-style artichokes), a true delicacy.

Piazza delle Cinque Scole

Next, make your way to the Piazza delle Cinque Scole, named after the five synagogues that once stood here. Today, it remains a vibrant meeting spot with a rich history. The piazza leads to the Via del Portico d'Ottavia, the main street filled with plaques commemorating Jewish Romans who were deported during WWII.

Great Synagogue of Rome

The cornerstone of your walking our is the Great Synagogue of Rome or the Tempio Maggiore di Roma. This remarkable edifice, constructed after the ghetto's abolishment in 1882, is one of the largest synagogues in Europe. The unique square dome, covered in travertine, stands out in Rome's cityscape. The synagogue also houses the Jewish Museum of Rome, where artifacts, including ancient Torah scrolls and textiles, document the Roman Jewish community's history.

Inside the synagogue, take note of the stunning interior design - a mix of various styles from Byzantine to Art Nouveau. The Holy Ark, where the Torah scrolls are kept, is another significant sight, made from marble and gold.

While touring the Synagogue, ensure to visit the Spanish Synagogue, located in the same complex. This smaller synagogue is a gem with its intricate decorations and historical importance, especially for Rome's Sephardic Jewish community.

Tiber Island the last step of your walking tour

As your walking tour concludes, take time to visit the Tiber Island, located nearby. It’s home to the Fatebenefratelli Hospital, where numerous Jewish lives were saved during WWII by doctors who diagnosed them with the fictional "K Syndrome."

In conclusion, the Jewish Ghetto and Synagogue walking tour offers a chance to explore Rome from a fresh perspective. This excursion isn't just for those interested in Jewish history. It is a voyage through centuries of Roman history, intersecting cultures, and architectural grandeur. It's a journey of resilience and a testament to the power of cultural preservation.

The beauty of Rome is not just in the famous landmarks that everyone knows but also in its hidden corners that carry untold stories and represent diverse cultural influences. As you step into the Jewish Ghetto, you step into a living, breathing narrative - a narrative that continues to shape Rome's vibrant cultural fabric. And there lies the real magic of a walking tour of Rome.

So, the next time you find yourself planning a walking tour of Rome, do consider the Jewish Ghetto and Synagogue. Its rich tapestry of history, culture, and heritage is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation of Rome’s many layers, a city eternally fascinating.