Roseto Comunale

Rome's Roseto Comunale rose garden overlooks the Circus Maximus and Palatine Hill. (Photo courtesy of Comune di Roma)

A hidden Aventine rose garden overlooking the Circus Maximus

At the foot of the Aventine Hill, this hidden little garden is filled with 1,100 varieties of its eponoymous roses and blessed with views between the umbrella pines across the nearby Circus Maximus to the crumbling ancient palaces atop the Palatine Hill.

Tacitus reports that there was actually a temple dedicated to Flora on the site since at least the 3rd century BC, bedecked with the goddess's beloved flowers.

Later filled with vineyards and vegetable gardens, the site became the "Garden of the Jews" in 1645, when the Jewish Cemetery was located next-door. That was moved to Verano in 1934, and the site languished until 1950, when the city of Rome first decided to plant it with a municipal rose garden.

Sadly, it is only open during the rose-blooming months of springtime, usually April 21 through mid- to late June, 8:30am–7:30pm.

Thankfully, howwever, admission is free.

Tips & links

Details

ADDRESS

Via di Valle Murcia 6/Clivo dei Publicii 3
tel. +39-06-574-6810
www.comune.roma.it

OPEN

Apr 21–late June only: Daily 8:30am–7:30pm

ADMISSION

Free

TRANSPORT

Bus: 81, 628, 715
Metro: Circo Massimo (B)
Hop-on/hop-off: Circo Massimo

How long does the Roseto Comunale take?

Planning your day: If you just want a lovely little stroll with some nice views, give it 10-15 minutes. If you love roses—or gardens in general—budget a good 45 min.

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