Rome Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma)

The Basics

Walking tours focused on the city’s Jewish life and food tours highlighting the neighborhood’s cuisine are excellent ways to discover the history and culture of this unique corner of Rome. You can also book a private tour of the area, allowing for customized experiences for those with limited mobility, food allergies, or other requirements or preferences. For even more insight into Jewish Rome, the synagogue’s museum has a curated collection of documents and artifacts related to local Jewish history.

In addition to its Jewish cultural sights, the Ghetto is home to a number of ancient ruins—the Portico of Octavia (Portico d’Ottavia or Porticus Octaviae) and the Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello) are the most significant— and the iconicBocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) marble mask at the Basilica of St. Mary in Cosmedin (Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin), made famous in the Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck filmRoman Holiday.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Most small-group Jewish Ghetto tours are on foot or by bike, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

• The Jewish Ghetto is located near Rome’s bustling Campo de’ Fiori outdoor market, and many group tours include visits to both.

How to Get There

The Jewish Ghetto is in Rione Sant’Angelo, directly across the Tiber River from the Trastevere neighborhood and not far from the Roman Forum. There are no metro stops near the Ghetto, but a number of city bus lines connect it with the train station and other parts of the city.

When to Get There

A Rome tour focused on the Jewish Ghetto is best scheduled when the neighborhood businesses are open; many close for the Sabbath from Friday at sunset to Saturday at sunset.

The Turtle Fountain

The Eternal City is known for its dozens of beautiful fountains, and one of the prettiest is the Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) in the ghetto’s Piazza Mattei. Dating from the late Renaissance, this small fountain’s original dolphin decorations were replaced by turtles due to low water pressure, resulting in the endearing version we see today.

What is the Rome Jewish Ghetto?

The Jewish Ghetto is a neighborhood in Rome along the River Tiber that was established in the 16th century. Walls isolated this quarter, where Jewish people lived, from the rest of Rome. Today, it is home to historic landmarks connected to Jewish heritage in Italy.

Is there still a Jewish Ghetto in Rome?

The quarter on the River Tiber, where Jewish people were once walled in, still exists in Rome today. It is home to a major landmark, the Great Synagogue of Rome, including the Jewish Museum of Rome. This is a great place to learn about the neighborhood’s history.

Can you tour the Jewish Ghetto in Rome?

Visitors to Rome can either explore the streets of the former Jewish Ghetto independently or join a sightseeing tour focused on the history of this neighborhood. Many people also choose to visit the Great Synagogue of Rome and the Jewish Museum of Rome to learn more.

What is the best time of year to visit the Jewish Ghetto in Rome?

The number of visitors to Rome peaks during the summer months of June, July, and August. However, people seeking to skip the crowds and enjoy more pleasant temperatures may choose to plan a trip to Rome during the spring or fall months instead.

How long do you need in the Rome Jewish Ghetto?

It is possible to stroll through the neighborhood of the Rome Jewish Ghetto in as little as an hour. Some visitors spend half a day here, joining a sightseeing tour focused on the quarter’s history or going inside the Great Synagogue of Rome and the Jewish Museum of Rome.

Is the Jewish Ghetto in Trastevere?

No, the Jewish Ghetto is not in Trastevere. Bridges cross the River Tiber, making it easy to wander between these two neighborhoods in Rome on foot. Historically, however, some of the first Jewish settlements in Rome were located in the Trastevere neighborhood.

Ways to explore

Walking tours focused on the city’s Jewish life and food tours that highlight the neighborhood’s Roman Jewish cuisine are among the top ways to discover the history and culture of this unique corner of the city. Many private and small-group Jewish Rome tours include a stop at the synagogue’s museum to see its collection of documents and artifacts related to local Jewish history. Private food tours, on the other hand, are an ideal choice for accommodating food allergies or special diets.

Accessibility

The Jewish Ghetto is relatively flat; however, cobblestone streets and the absence of sidewalks pose a challenge for wheelchair users. The synagogue and Jewish Museum are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

There is no age limit for visiting this neighborhood, and family-friendly food tours are ideal for kids of all ages.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, sunscreen, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, clothing that covers shoulders and legs (for synagogue entry)

Not allowed

Large bags and backpacks, umbrellas, metal objects (for synagogue entry)

Amenities

Restrooms, audio guides, bookshop

Address

The Jewish Ghetto is in Rione Sant’Angelo, directly across the Tiber River from the Trastevere neighborhood and not far from the Roman Forum. You can explore this relatively compact neighborhood on foot or by bike, and some tours include transportation.

Driving

Much of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto neighborhood is a restricted traffic zone, accessible by vehicle only to residents and those with authorization. Skip the hassle of driving and reach the area on foot from nearby sights or with public transportation.

Public transportation

Although there are no metro stops near the Jewish Ghetto, several city bus lines connect it with the train station and other parts of the city. Lungotevere and Largo di Torre Argentina are the nearest bus transportation hubs.

Best times to visit

A Rome Jewish Ghetto tour is best scheduled when the neighborhood businesses are open; many close for the Sabbath from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday.

Best days to visit

Jewish businesses generally close on Saturday, while other shops and eateries may be closed on Sundays. Tour Monday–Friday to experience the neighborhood at its liveliest.

Best months to visit

Jewish Ghetto tours are primarily outdoors, so consider visiting in the spring or fall for mild weather and extended daylight hours, perfect for sightseeing and dining.

Special events

This district of Rome observes the Jewish holiday calendar. Confirm closures in advance if visiting during Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and other High Holy Days.