What to do in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto is a small neighborhood in Rome along the Tiber River smushed between Trastevere and the Roman Forum. If you’re looking for what to do in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, the search is over! The neighborhood is easy to miss but takes 30 minutes to walk through and sit down for a kosher meal after looking at the Tempio Maggiore di Roma.
If you walk after a morning in Trastevere across the Tiber River, this will be on your route anyway.
Rome’s Jewish community is among the oldest in Europe. There are traces of Jewish life in Rome starting in the 2nd century BC. The history of Jews in Rome is tumultuous. They were discriminated against and segregated for over 300 years beginning in the 1500s. During this time, walls surrounded the ghetto and were only torn down in the 1800s. If you are interested, read more about the history here.
Rome’s Jewish Ghetto Map
What to see in the Jewish Ghetto
It may be best to think of what to do in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto by taking yourself on a mini walking tour. After crossing the bridge from Trastevere and past Isola Tiberina, you’ll basically be in the Jewish Ghetto. Stop to see these 4 points of interest then continue on (or get a small bite to eat).
Tempio Maggiore di Roma
Tempio Maggiore di Roma is a massive synagogue constructed in 1901. Additionally, there is a museum inside the synagogue. That being said, I have never been inside. Instead, plan to take a loop around the outside as you explore the ghetto. Cost: €11.
Teatro Marcello
Built by Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus in 13 BC, Teatro Marcello once seated up to 20,000 people for performances. It is also known as the “little colosseum.”
Portico d’Ottavia
Portico of Octavia is an ancient fish market that dates back to the 2nd century BC.
The Fontane delle Tartarughe
As you’re wandering the ghetto, check out the Turtle Fountain, built in 1658. Apparently, it was built in response to a challenge for a fountain to be built in a single day.
Where to eat in the Jewish Ghetto
Jewish artichokes are sold all over the city, but the Jewish Ghetto is where you should really order them… Mostly for the #culture. Artichokes are deep-fried and delicious (if you like deep-fried things).
Walk up and down Via del Portico d’Ottavia to get a look at the nibs options. However, with so much to eat and drink around Rome, don’t feel like you need to eat while you’re here.
Giggetto —next to the Portico d’Ottavia is Giggetto, a Roman-Jewish eatery. Get the fried artichokes here as a light snack.
Nonna Betta—a stylish restaurant with frescos on the walls.
