Rome’s Jewish ghettos are a fascinating and historically rich area to explore. The narrow streets and alleyways of this neighborhood are lined with historic buildings, synagogues, and restaurants serving up traditional Roman-Jewish cuisine. Here’s a guide to what you can see and do in the Jewish Ghettos Rome Street.
The Great Synagogue of Rome
The Great Synagogue of Rome is the largest synagogue in Rome and one of the most important Jewish landmarks in the city. The synagogue was built in 1904 in a mix of architectural styles, including Italian Baroque and Moorish Revival. It is a stunning building with a large dome and an ornate interior that includes a beautiful gold ark.
Jewish Museum of Rome
The Jewish Museum of Rome is located next to the Great Synagogue and houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of the Jewish community in Rome. The museum includes exhibits on the history of the ghetto, Jewish holidays and traditions, and the Nazi occupation of Rome during World War II.
The Portico d’Ottavia
The Portico d’Ottavia is a beautiful ancient Roman structure that dates back to the 1st century BC. The portico was originally built as a market and was later converted into a synagogue during the Middle Ages. Today, the Portico is a popular spot for tourists to take pictures and enjoy the view of the surrounding area.
Kosher Restaurants
The Jewish ghettos are home to several kosher restaurants that serve traditional Roman-Jewish cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include carciofi alla giudia (deep-fried artichokes), coda alla vaccinara (braised oxtail), and spaghetti alla carbonara (pasta with eggs, pancetta, and pecorino cheese). Some of the most popular restaurants include Nonna Betta, Ba’Ghetto, and La Taverna del Ghetto.
Pasticceria Boccione
Pasticceria Boccione is a traditional Jewish bakery that has been in business since 1922. The bakery is famous for its delicious kosher pastries, including biscotti di mandorla (almond cookies), pizza ebraica (Jewish pizza), and crostate di visciole (sour cherry tarts).
The Jewish Catacombs
The Jewish Catacombs are a series of underground tombs that date back to the 2nd century AD. The catacombs were used by Jewish families as a burial ground, and many of the tombs feature beautiful frescoes and inscriptions in Hebrew and Greek. The catacombs are located outside of the Jewish ghettos and can be reached by taking the Metro B line to the Bologna station.
In conclusion, the Jewish ghettos of Rome are a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and food. The Great Synagogue, Jewish Museum, Portico d’Ottavia, kosher restaurants, and Jewish Catacombs are just a few of the highlights of this fascinating neighborhood. So, don’t hesitate to explore this unique and historically rich area on your next trip to Rome!
