What is Open House Roma

Rome is one of the world's best-known cities and is renowned, among many other things, for its vast cultural heritage. Open House Roma is an annual initiative that allows visitors to explore, free of charge, places in the Capital that are usually closed to the public or difficult to access, with a particular focus on architecture and design. 

Now in its 14th edition, the event will open as many as 220 locations across the Eternal City from 16 to 24 May 2026: hundreds of historic buildings, architectural studios, contemporary structures, public spaces and private homes – normally inaccessible – will be open to both tourists and residents. The aim of the initiative is to make architecture, and the cultural framework behind it, accessible to everyone.

Open House Roma 2026: the buildings not to be missed

As mentioned, more than 200 venues across Rome will be open. To help you decide what to see during Open House Roma, we have selected a number of must-see highlights to include in your itinerary, ranging from iconic architecture to usually inaccessible spaces and locations that tell the story of the city's evolution.

Palazzo INAIL

Among the buildings open for Open House Roma 2026, we recommend the Palazzo INAIL, formerly known as the headquarters of the Italian National Accident Insurance Fund (later renamed INAIL). Located on Via IV Novembre and designed by Armando Brasini and Guido Zevi, it is an outstanding example of institutional architecture popular between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, combining a monumental style with strong classical influences. In particular, its richly decorated façade stands out, featuring sculptural elements and details intended to convey solidity and authority.

Location: Piazza del Grillo, 1
Visit duration: 50 minutes

Palazzo dell'Agricoltura

Built in the early 20th century, the Palazzo dell'Agricoltura reflects the historical moment between the height of the Belle Époque and the outbreak of the First World War. Designed in an eclectic style, the building is part of the broader wave of development that characterised Rome when it was declared the new capital of the Kingdom of Italy. 

The building impresses not only with its imposing façade and frescoed interiors, but also with unique spaces such as:

• the National Historical Library of Agriculture, established in 1848 alongside the Ministry of Agriculture, Commerce and the Kingdom of Savoy;

• The new museum area dedicated to the well-known wheat geneticist Nazareno Strampelli.

Location: Via XX Settembre, 20
Visit duration: 45 minutes

Villa Maraini – Swiss Institute in Rome

Among the highlights of your Open House Roma itinerary, Villa Maraini is not to be missed. Originally built for the industrialist Emilio Maraini, it is now home to the Swiss Institute of Rome: it is a building that also owes its fame to the garden that surrounds it and the splendid viewpoint with which it is equipped; from which you can enjoy a view of all of Rome, a few meters lower than that offered by St. Peter's Basilica.  

Palazzo delle Finanze

Commissioned by Quintino Sella and designed by Raffaele Canevari, the Palazzo delle Finanze was the first major building constructed in Rome as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy. To this day, it retains its original function, housing the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Italian Republic. Among the many points of interest, don't miss:

• The Renaissance-style quadriportico (four-sided courtyard)

• The historic library with volumes from pre-unification states 

• The Ciampi Hall, formerly the Majority Hall, which once hosted meetings of the Council of Ministers

• The Hall of Bronzes, featuring four sculptures by Giovan Battista Foggini

• The Treasury Department Library.

Location: Via XX Settembre, 97
Visit duration: 60 minutes

American Academy in Rome

The American Academy in Rome was founded in 1894 and is dedicated to supporting the work of artists, scholars and writers. The main building, designed by McKim, Mead & White, is the heart of the institution and houses studios, residential quarters and a gallery for temporary exhibitions. It also includes administrative offices and a library with a research centre. 

Location: Via Angelo Masina, 5
Visit duration: 45 minutes

Accademia Costume e Moda – Former Magazzini Mas

A more recent building than those described so far, yet no less fascinating: in 2024, the former Magazzini Mas building was transformed into the Accademia Costume e Moda (Academy of Costume and Fashion). The project, led by Kami Architecture & Engineering, aims from the outset to enhance the dialogue between the historical layers of the Esquilino district and the contemporary requirements of an international institution.

Location: Via Pellegrino Rossi, 10
Visit duration: 45 minutes

Where to stay in Rome during Open House

Now that you know some of the key attractions to visit during this architecture festival, all that remains is to choose your hotel for Open House Roma 2026 – ideally in a convenient location for exploring the city.

Our recommendation is Trastevere Roma | UNA Esperienze, a welcoming and lively hotel located in one of Rome's most eclectic and beloved districts, among historic alleys, bars and artisan shops. The property offers a comfortable and refined stay, combining excellent hospitality with a wide range of services. 

Among these is the Vista Trastevere Roof Bar & Restaurant, open daily from 12.00 pm to 11.30 pm and perfect for sampling the best of local and international cuisine. The modern panoramic terrace also allows you to enjoy delicious dishes and an aperitif while admiring the Eternal City from above. 

The hotel is also very attentive to the needs of groups and families, thanks to several rooms and suites that can accommodate up to five guests. After a day spent exploring some of Rome's most beautiful buildings, there's nothing better than returning to a welcoming place to unwind.

Rome by Romans: get to know the real Trastevere

Booking a room at Trastevere Roma | UNA Esperienze also gives you access to the immersive project Rome by Romans – Trastevere. This special initiative, available free of charge to hotel guests, is designed to enrich your stay in the Eternal City through unique experiences. 

The concept is that Rome should not simply be visited, but experienced through all five senses. Each sense shapes an itinerary that tells the story of the city – and specifically the Trastevere district – in a different, unconventional and above all authentic way. Discover all the details of the project!

Open House Roma: experiencing the city through architecture

Open House Roma 2026 is an event not to be missed, a moment to discover Rome like you've never seen it before and really immerse yourself in the city's incredible architectural heritage. From 16 to 24 May, private homes, villas, contemporary buildings and historic palaces await you: book your stay now and get ready for an unforgettable experience of history and culture.