Trastevere
Trastevere
Trastevere got its name because of the quarter’s location – in a bend in the river Tiber (tra is between, Tevere is Tiber, hence), which flows through Rome.
During daytime the quarter is fairly quiet, but at night Trastevere is one of Rome’s liveliest areas, thanks to its narrow, winding streets, picturesque little squares and especially its growing number of restaurants, cafes and pubs.
Trastevere’s first inhabitants
Until the beginning of the 20th century Trastevere was really a no man’s land, plagued by malaria and continuous floodings, mostly populated by pickpockets, prostitutes and sailors waiting for their next ship.
The first ones to find permanent abode in Trastevere were Jews and freed slaves. Initially the Jews were mostly traders who managed to earn a living thanks to the vastness of the Roman empire. After the empire’s fall they stayed in Trastevere (In the Vicolo dell’Atleta the remains of an old synagogue can still be seen.)
Trastevere’s main tourist attractions
The Christians were also welcomed in Trastevere. The first basilica dedicated to the virgin Maria can therefore also be found in Trastevere. The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, which started its existence as an inn, is one of the main tourist attractions of the quarter.
Other sights worth visiting are the Villa Farnesina, the Palazzo Corsini and the Orto Botanico (Botanical Gardens).
Rome’s biggest market
Every Sunday morning Porta Portese, Italy’s biggest flea market, takes place in Trastevere. From the most insignificant household goods and trinkets to antique furniture (not always equally antique, to be sure, so be careful), if it exists, it will probably be sold in Trastevere. Bargaining is definitely recommended, since blond hair and foreign languages are well known to cause instantaneous inflation of prices. It is best to arrive very early in the morning, when there are no that many people yet. Towards 10 or 11am it will be impossible to move without rubbing shoulders with other people. Quite a few of those shoulders, incidentally, are attached to arms and fingers that are very adept at opening zippers and emptying pockets, so once more, be careful.
From Chaplin Bed and Breakfast to Trastevere
To reach Trastevere from Bed and Breakfast Chaplin Hostel Rome you need to take bus 64 of 40E from Rome Termini to Largo di Torre Argentina, where you take tram 8. Until 8pm there is also a direct bus from Termini, the “H” bus, which is far less frequent though.