Testaccio, Rome
Testaccio - Rome Sightseeing Tours, Activities & Tickets | TripTard.Com
Testaccio - Introduction
Testaccio is a district of Rome, located southeast of the centre. It is known for its "leather" industry – a name given to the tanneries and other workshops that have operated here since the Middle Ages. Today, Testaccio is also home to a lively market, several churches and some of Rome's oldest cafés.
Testaccio tours will take you through the history of this district, from its origins as a working class neighbourhood to its present day appeal as a tourist destination. Whether you're looking to explore Testaccio on your own or take part in an organised tour, there are plenty of options available to you.
Some of the most popular Testaccio tours include visits to the leather factories, the vegetable market and the charming cafes and coffee houses that line Via dei Greci. No matter what your interests are, there's sure to be a tour available that will fit them perfectly.
Testaccio - The Etruscan Tombs
If you're looking to learn more about Testaccio, the ancient Roman neighbourhood that's now home to some of Rome's most impressive Etruscan tombs, you'll want to check out these sightseeing tours and activities.
? Tombs of the Tarquinii: Tourists visiting Testaccio can explore the tombs of the Tarquinii, one of Rome's most famous families. The tomb of Lucretia, for example, has been well preserved thanks to an inscription by Cicero.
? Tomb of Cecilia Metella: Just steps from the tombs of the Tarquinii is the tomb of Cecilia Metella, a wealthy woman who was buried with her dog and several slaves.
? Tomb of Orpheus: If you're looking for a more spiritual experience, head to the Tomb of Orpheus. This site is believed to be home to some of Orpheus' bones, which are said to have magical powers.
Testaccio - The Roman Amphitheater
Testaccio is a small district in the northwest of Rome, located between the Via Veneto and the Piazza Navona.
Originally an agricultural area, Testaccio gradually became a working-class district in the medieval period. In 1553, it was the site of a battle between Michelangelo’s troops and Bernardo Buontalenti’s Bande Nere. Today, it is one of Rome's most popular tourist destinations, with several restaurants and cafes as well as a few souvenir shops.
The Roman Amphitheater, also known as the Colosseum or simply the Colosseum, is a Roman arena that was used for public events and entertainment. It is perhaps best known as the site of the animal hunts in the gladiatorial games held there during the Roman Period. The Colosseum could hold up to 50,000 spectators, and was built from concrete and brick. It was originally built by Vespasian in 72 AD as an amphitheater for theatrical performances and animal hunts. Over time, it would become one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, hosting such events as horse races, chariot races, executions,
Testaccio - The Temple of Vespasian and Titus
If you're looking for a tour of some of Rome's most popular sights, Testaccio is the perfect place to start. This district, which sits just east of the Colosseum, is home to the Temple of Vespasian and Titus (the latter of which is known for its colossal statue), as well as several other ancient Roman monuments. If you're feeling energetic, there are plenty of opportunities for activities in Testaccio, such as walking or biking through its narrow streets or taking in some of the city's famous graffiti art.
Testaccio - The Colosseum
Testaccio is the name given to a section of the ancient Roman Forum, which ran from the Regia (now Palazzo dei Conservatori) on the north-west corner of the Forum, to the Palatine Hill on the south-east corner. The name comes from the Latin testa (head) because one of its main attractions was a large bronze head of Mars, called Testa di Marte (Mars's Head), which was originally set up in 55 BC by Gaius Julius Caesar as part of his funeral display.
Nowadays Testaccio is famous for its market, which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday morning. The square is also home to several interesting ruins, including an 8th century church with a beautiful mosaic floor.
When in Rome, don't forget to visit Testaccio!