The secret and hidden side of Rome: another way to explore the Capital

Rome is one of the most famous and popular cities in the world: its main attractions, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, from the Imperial Fora to the Pantheon, appear every year in the photographs of millions of tourists. However, today we want to tell you about a secret and unusual side of Rome to explore on an itinerary that will lead you to places that you may not know. 

Exploring the secrets of Rome is the best way to truly experience this city and its less-explored faces, far from the most over-commercialised tourist destinations. So here are 10 parts of the Eternal City that will amaze you, as well as a selection of hotels in Rome that are perfect for your next visit.

Uncommon sights to see in Rome: hidden corners and interesting facts

There is an extensive and varied number of hidden parts of Rome: from entire districts modelled to a foreign aesthetic to underground stadiums, from tunnels that create optical illusions to small and eccentric villas.

The “Little London” in the Flamino district

We are in the Flamino district, in Via Bernardo Celentano, to be precise. Here we find a peculiar street known as “Little London”: a walk down this street is a chance to admire 26 Liberty buildings in Anglo-Italian style, ordered by the mayor Ernesto Nathan as part of the grand urban modernisation plan for Rome implemented at the beginning of the 20th century. Originally built to house civil servants, these building stand out for their friezes, decorations and balconies. 

The Stadium of Domitian and the underground spaces under Piazza Navona

Located at five metres under Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s best-conserved and lesser-known archaeological sites: the Stadium of Domitian, the first and only brick athletic stadium in the history of the ancient city. Ordered by the emperor whose name it bears, it was designed to host athletic, fighting and boxing competitions, with a capacity of approximately 30 thousand spectators. 

When to visit: every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ticket prices: €10 full price, €8 discounted 

Galleria Borghese

When talking about art galleries in Rome, one immediately thinks of famous examples such as the Vatican Museums, Palazzo delle Esposizioni or the Capitoline Museums. Not everyone remembers to put Galleria Borghese, situated inside Villa Borghese, on their list. Here, in the midst of the city’s green lung, you will be able to admire a vast catalogue of works by celebrated artists such as Raffaello, Canova, Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio and many others. 

When to visit: from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ticket prices: €18 full price

The Pincio water clock

We remain at Villa Borghese to discover a true treasure, the Pincio water clock. Invented in 1867 by a monk with a passion for clocks and installed in the city in 1873, this engineering masterpiece amazes residents and tourists with its unique appearance, with the wooden tower closed off by panels of glass and the surrounding lush vegetation. The presence of a small lake adds a further special touch, creating a fairy tale atmosphere. 

The Coppedè district

This characteristic district takes its name from Gino Coppedè, the Florentine architect who designed this unusual residential complex. What makes it unusual is the presence of a series of evocative and alienating locations inspired by the setting of the first ever masterpiece of Italian cinema: Cabiria. If you pass this way, take a look at the arch in Via Tagliamento, and the decorations on the facades of Palazzo del Ragno and the Villino delle Fate.

Passeggiata del Gelsomino

The Passeggiata del Gelsomino is a promenade that is a must, particularly if you are planning a visit to the Vatican City: located in the now-decommissioned San Pietro train station, it was created on the occasion of the 2000 Jubilee, when one of the two lines was removed to allow the creation of a pedestrian path. The path offers a less-well-known view of the dome of Saint Peter. 

The Forced Perspective Gallery by Francesco Borromini

Francesco Borromini is considered to be one of the leading figures of the Italian Baroque movement. The works of the celebrated architect include some splendid Roman churches such as San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane. One of his less famous projects, but one that is absolutely worth a visit, can be found in the courtyard of Palazzo Spada: the forced perspective gallery, created between 1652 and 1653. As the name suggests, this gallery features a trick of perspective based on a single vanishing point that makes the 9 metres of colonnade appear 38 metres long.

When to visit: from Wednesdays to Mondays, from 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. 

Casina delle Civette at Villa Torlonia

What unusual sites are worth a visit in Rome? There is no doubt that the Casina delle Civette is a treasure that you should definitely include as part of your itinerary: if you have not already heard of it, it is a small villa situated in the park of Villa Torlonia; it is not hard to spot, as it is not every day that one sees Central European architecture here. This strange combination of a miniature Black-Forest castle and a mountain lodge was once the private residence of Prince Alessandro Torlonia, an eccentric figure who, over the years, sought to incorporate a range of architectural styles to lend the building a unique character. The name is derived from the windows on the ground floor, which bear a series of high-temperature glass-painted birds - including little owls, the “civette” of the name - requested by Alessandro’s grandson, Giovanni Torlonia. 

When to visit: From Tuesdays to Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ticket prices: €12.00 full price, €6.00 discounted

Belvedere Socrate

Rome offers a range of places from where to admire the city: some of the most famous include the Janiculum and the Terrazza degli Innamorati. However, there is also an observation point that we could go as far as to say it is a secret even to the residents of Rome. It is located in Piazzale Socrate, in the Balduina district, at the foot of Mount Mario. It offers a breathtaking 360° view over the rooftops of Rome, in particular of the dome of Saint Peter and the Prati district. Please note that the area is partially fenced off for security reasons, but it is still possible to enjoy the view.

The Orange Garden and the keyhole

This site is better known than others, but we still think it is an essential feature of this guide. A climb up to the Aventine Hill leads to the Orange Garden, a charming spot that offers one of the most beautiful views of Rome. Around 150 metres from here is the door to the Magistral Villa of the Sovereign Order of Malta, which offers a unique and unforgettable view of the dome of Saint Peter. 

Hotels for exploring the other face of Rome

A full itinerary to explore the other face of Rome can take a few days, which is why it is important to find a hotel that offers a combination of comfort, hospitality and excellent location. We recommend two: UNA Hotels Decò Roma and Maison Roma Piazza di Spagna | UNA Esperienze.

UNA Hotels Decò Roma

UNA Hotels Decò Roma is situated 100 metres from Rome Termini station, which makes it an ideal spot from where to explore the Eternal City, above all for those arriving by train. The hotel offers 196 rooms and suites, with elegant and cosy spaces dominated by  an Art Deco atmosphere: the various options include the Superior  Room with a terrace, which, in addition to style and comfort, also offers a breathtaking view of Rome. 

And that is not all, because the hotel is also home to the Grande Gatsby Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy the best of traditional Rome, Italian and international cuisine with an ever-present contemporary touch. The elegant 1920s-inspired furnishings contribute to creating a unique atmosphere designed to reflect the menu. 

Lastly, if you prefer to travel around Rome by car, the hotel also has a private garage, offering you a worry-free place to park your car. Considering the limited availability, please remember to contact the hotel in advance to make sure you always have a parking space reserved!

Maison Roma Piazza di Spagna | UNA Esperienze

Maison Roma Piazza di Spagna | UNA Esperienze is located in Via Margutta, one of the city’s most famous streets, a symbol of the iconic Dolce Vita period. The boutique hotel is located in a building that was once home to an old college complete with chapel; here, many of the fascinating historical details have been preserved, from the frescoed vaulted ceilings to the tabernacle and the period altar, now set directly into the bar counter.

Immediately outside the hotel, you can enjoy the timeless atmosphere of Via Margutta with a stroll that, passing art galleries and artisan workshops, will lead you to Piazza di Spagna and to the Trinità dei Monti steps. Inside the hotel is a delightful little inner courtyard, an oasis of peace where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail in an atmosphere of tranquillity. 

Maison Roma Piazza di Spagna | UNA Esperienze also offers its guests a personalised in-room service for an even more special experience. The rooms are snug and cozy, situated in what used to be the lodgings of the order members and the students.

A side of Rome to be explored: a journey to discover secret spots, history and authenticity

In Rome, every corner hides a treasure; some are well-known and famous the world over, while others are unknown to most people and are not so easy to find. If we have piqued your interest with this guide, all you have to do is book a room in one of the hotels that we have recommended, and get ready for an unusual tour to explore the less-well-known sites of the Capital.