Rome’s Jewish Ghetto

Teatro di Marcello is one of the most beautiful ancient buildings in Rome. Built for Julius Caesar but completed after his death it has since been redesigned and reconstructed to take on its current form. The non-uniform facade (which you thankfully can’t see in this photo) is thanks to Mussolini who decided to have a bit of a go at restoring the building.

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Walking past the theatre towards the Portico di Ottavia you’ll stumble into the Jewish Ghetto, an area established by the Pope in the 16th century which stripped the Jews of all rights and freedoms.

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The Jewish Ghetto was enclosed by a wall and the 1,000 poverty stricken inhabitants were locked in each night. Nowadays, the exclusive residential area is known for it’s art galleries, boutique stores and great restaurants. Funny how quickly things can change.

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The Jewish quarter is home to Rome’s main synagogue which can only be visited on a guided tour (unless you’re there for a service).

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There is also a quirky turtle fountain.

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From the Jewish Ghetto you can cross the Ponte Fabricio to stroll around the pretty Tiber Island and enjoy a gelato.

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