Casa Valentina

Testaccio is one of the most authentic and distinctive neighborhoods in Rome, located south of the historic center, at the base of the Aventine Hill. Originally established as a port area in ancient Rome, it derives its name from the "Monte dei Cocci," an artificial hill formed over the centuries by shards of amphorae used in trade. This connection to history is still palpable as you stroll through its narrow streets, where the past coexists with the vibrancy of the present. Once a working-class district, it is now a charming locale frequented by locals and travelers seeking authenticity and genuine atmospheres.

The heartbeat of the neighborhood lies in its culinary tradition. Testaccio is famous for its trattorias and osterias, where Roman cuisine reaches its peak. Here, you can savor iconic dishes such as coda alla vaccinara, trippa alla romana, amatriciana, and carbonara, all prepared according to recipes passed down through generations. The Testaccio Market, with its stalls of fresh produce and local specialties, is the perfect place to taste true Roman cuisine and immerse yourself in the neighborhood's daily life.

In recent years, Testaccio has revitalized itself, becoming a hub for art and nightlife. Old industrial areas have been transformed into cultural spaces, trendy venues, and art galleries. The MACRO Testaccio, home to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Rome, exemplifies this rebirth, where modernity and history blend harmoniously.

The atmosphere of the neighborhood is lively yet never chaotic. Although it is just a short distance from the city’s main attractions, it remains a less touristy corner of Rome, ideal for discovering the capital's more authentic soul. A walk through its streets, a stop at a typical trattoria, or an evening filled with art and music offers a genuine and memorable Roman experience.