Aventino Hill
Aventino Hill, known as Aventine Hill in English, is one of the seven hills of Rome, Italy. It is located on the eastern bank of the Tiber River, south of the city center. Historically, it was one of the most prestigious residential areas in ancient Rome, with luxurious villas and temples belonging to wealthy citizens.
Today, Aventino Hill is a charming neighborhood known for its quiet, leafy streets and beautiful views over the city. It’s also home to several important landmarks, including the Church of Santa Sabina, one of the oldest basilicas in Rome, dating back to the 5th century. Another notable site is the Garden of Oranges (Giardino degli Aranci), a picturesque park with orange trees and a terrace offering panoramic views of Rome, including the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Aventino Hill is a great place for a leisurely stroll, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, and it offers a glimpse into Rome’s rich history and architectural heritage.
The key attractions in Aventino Hill and the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) in Rome include:
- Church of Santa Sabina: This ancient basilica is renowned for its early Christian architecture and its beautiful wooden door. It dates back to the 5th century AD and is one of the oldest basilicas in Rome.
- Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci): Also known as the Parco Savello, this charming park is famous for its orange trees and offers stunning views of Rome, including the Tiber River, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the city’s skyline.
- Knights of Malta Keyhole: Located on the Aventine Hill, this keyhole offers a unique view through three countries: Italy, the Vatican City, and Malta. Peering through the keyhole, you can see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica at the end of a perfectly aligned hedge in the gardens of the Priory of the Knights of Malta.
- Circus Maximus: While not directly on Aventino Hill, the Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, is nearby. It’s a vast open space with ruins and is a pleasant area for a walk or picnic.
- Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta: This square is located in front of the Priory of the Knights of Malta and is where you’ll find the famous keyhole mentioned above.
- Santa Prisca Church: Situated near the Orange Garden, this church dates back to the 4th century AD and is notable for its Byzantine-style mosaics and frescoes.
These are just a few highlights, but there’s much more to explore in this historic and picturesque area of Rome.
