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Great Synagogue of RomeCulture & history

Our most recommended Great Synagogue of Rome Culture & history

Rome: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour

1. Rome: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour

Discover the beauty of one of Rome’s most well-kept secrets, the neighborhood of the Jewish Ghetto. Meet your friendly and professional tour guide at Trajan's Column in the center of Rome and begin your journey into the history of one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods. Explore architecture and neighborhoods from 2000 years ago. Pass by the Theater of Marcellus, and the Portico d’Ottavia to see some of the ancient structures still being used today. Your guide will take you to a Gelateria where you will be treated to homemade Kosher gelato. From here you will go to Piazza Mattei and see the famous Turtle Fountain. Then pass by the last remaining piece of the wall that kept the Jewish community in this area for centuries. You will learn about the tumultuous past and resilience of Rome’s Jews as you pass the Great Synagogue. Next, cross the oldest functioning bridge in Rome as you go onto Tiber Island. Listen to the stories about the hospital saving people during WWII as well as the story of Asclepius at the temple, now a church. Your guide will bring history to life for you as you conclude your tour here on the island.

Rome: Jewish Ghetto Guided Walking Tour

2. Rome: Jewish Ghetto Guided Walking Tour

Go in search of Europe's oldest Jewish community accompanied by a professional guide and learn about the fascinating and tragic history of the Jewish Ghetto in Rome. Join your guide as you stroll through the narrow lanes of the remaining parts of the old Ghetto around Portico d’Ottavia. Retrace the history of the Jewish people in the city, from ancient times to the modern-day. Hear the tragic tale of how the Roman Jews were rounded up in the Ghetto to be sent to Auschwitz and see the brass cobblestones installed as a memorial to the Holocaust victims. Learn about Roman-Jewish cuisine and take the opportunity to sample traditional foods such as fried artichokes or an authentic sour cherry cake. Finally, admire the Great Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Rome and one of the largest in Europe. End your tour in Piazza Mattei at the Turtle Fountain.

Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Tour with Pizza Tasting

3. Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Tour with Pizza Tasting

Experience the captivating journey through time as we delve into the origins of Rome's Jewish Ghetto, established in 1555 by Pope Paul IV to accommodate the city's 5,000-strong Jewish population. Nestled near the tranquil banks of the Tiber River, this historically walled enclave has evolved into one of Rome's most enthralling neighborhoods. Embarking on our Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto walking tour, we commence our adventure in Trastevere. Once a renowned Regio during the reign of Emperor Augustus (Trans - Tiberim, meaning "across the Tiber"), Trastevere has preserved its medieval charm with its labyrinthine streets, narrow alleys, and charming squares. Visit significant Roman churches, including the venerable Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, an ancient Christian site of great significance, and the Basilica of Santa Cecilia, constructed upon the very location of the revered saint's former residence. Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of Trastevere, with its picturesque streets and remnants of the medieval synagogue. We will then cross the Tiber River, capturing the breathtaking view of the renowned Ponte Rotto, Rome's oldest stone bridge. Leave the idyllic Tiber Island behind, we venture into the heart of the former Jewish Ghetto. Delve into the compelling history of the Roman Jews, their profound cultural influence on the city, and the lasting impact they have left on this vibrant district. Throughout the tour, our expert guide will point out Jewish-owned establishments, kosher restaurants, and traditional shops and cafes in both areas. Enhance your experience by indulging in one of Rome's finest pizzas, the perfect culinary finale to your journey!

Rome: Jewish Ghetto, Great Synagogue & Trastevere Tour

4. Rome: Jewish Ghetto, Great Synagogue & Trastevere Tour

Most people identify Italy as one of the most Catholic country, but actually in Rome there is one of the largest Jewish communities in the world. Tour starts by the Ponte Sisto bridge and proceed to the picturesque Trastevere district. This colourful area with narrow streets and lively piazzas, is famous for the typical Roman nightlife. Crossing the Tiber river through the Tiber Island, you will reach the nearby ghetto. Strolling down tiny streets and pedestrian areas of the quarter, it will be possible to get in touch with the past and the present life of one of the oldest existing Jewish communities. Tour ends with the visit of the Jewish Museum, located in the Great Synagogue of Rome, showing magnificent artifacts and precious documents, witness of the 2000 year old history of Jews in Rome.

Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Self-Guided Tour

5. Rome: Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Self-Guided Tour

Learn the history of Rome's Jewish community in the former Jewish Ghetto and discover the Trastevere district on a self guided audio tour. Start your self-guided experience walking through the quaint avenues of Trastevere. Admire the famous Basilica of Santa Maria. Continue on to the Jewish Ghetto, located near the Tiber River. Pass through the iconic Isola Tiberina and stroll down charming streets. See the Great Synagogue, the symbol of the emancipation of the Jewish community in Rome. Learn about the history of the Roman Jewish community during the Roman Republic. Use your smartphone to listen to audio commentary about the areas you're visiting. Enjoy an opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of one of the oldest communities in Europe.

Rome: Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Small Group Tour

6. Rome: Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Small Group Tour

Explore the fascinating former Jewish Ghetto and picturesque Trastevere neighborhood of Rome on a 2 hour tour, limited to 6 participants. Located next to the River Tiber, Rome’s Jewish neighborhood is the oldest in the western world. Rich in architecture and history, your walk follows in the footsteps of Roman citizens, beginning in a Piazza where you can find many young local Romans today gathering - Piazza Trilussa. Embark on your journey through this incredible neighborhood rich in culture and history, and explore the Basilica of Santa Maria. Next, go to Isola Tiberina in the middle of the River Tiber, and learn how this was the site of the Jewish Ghetto in Ancient Rome. Your guide will take you to the open-air Teatro Marcello, built towards the end of the Roman Republic. Marvel at the Portico d’Ottavia, which once enclosed the temples of Jupiter Stator and Juno Regina. Finally, admire the Great Synagogue of Rome, still at the heart of Jewish life in Rome. Before you finish your tour, savor your experience with a delicious coffee or gelato on us!

Rome: Private Tour of the Jewish Quarter

7. Rome: Private Tour of the Jewish Quarter

Enjoy a completely private and premium tour of the Jewish Quarter in Rome. Wander the quaint cobbled streets at your own pace, ask burning questions, and learn the history, food, and beauty of the area. Discover an ancient community rich with culture and strength. Walk through the enchanting neighborhood of the Jewish Ghetto. Meet your private guide in the heart of Rome at Trajan's Column. Find ancient structures still very much in use at the Theater of Marcellus and the Portico d'Ottavia. Admire the brilliant mix of ancient and modernism in the quarter. Walk the central street lined with restaurants, bakeries, and shops, and pick a spot to come back and try some Kosher Italian food on your own later. Try some handmade Kosher gelato, treat of your guide, before continuing the tour. Next, head to Piazza Mattei and see the famous Turtle Fountain. Hear the spectacular tale of its single-day construction. Wander the cobbled streets that lead to the Great Synagogue and pass by the magnificent structure that celebrates the Jews in Rome and learn its important history. Cross the oldest bridge in Rome and arrive onto Tiber Island and learn of the Greek god Asclepius who came to Rome and landed on the island. Ask your guide for tips and suggestions for food and lifestyle in the Eternal City, and venture out on your own.

World War II Sights in Rome Private Walking Tour with Guide

8. World War II Sights in Rome Private Walking Tour with Guide

Join our expert History Guide on the streets of Rome to explore the complicated history of events and personalities involved in World War II in Italy. Book a private tour to take advantage of the full attention of your guide and ask relevant questions to deepen your understanding of the rise and fall of Italian Fascism, the Holocaust, and more. See WWII through the eyes of the Roman people! Book this 2 hour walking tour to see World War II sights in Rome. Your Private Guide will meet you in Piazza Barberini, near Fontana del Tritone and Palazzo Barberini, and take you on a stroll down Via Rasella. This is where a column of Nazi SS troops was attacked by an ambush of Italian Partisans in 1944, killing 28 SS policemen. You will learn about the Roman Resistance movement and how the Nazi forces retaliated by killing 335 Italians during the Fosse Ardeatine massacre. You will pass the world famous Trevi Fountain and head to Piazza Venezia, where you will find the palace that served as Mussolini’s headquarters. Opposite the balcony from where the Italian dictator declared the creation of the new Italian empire in May 1936 is the Altar of the Fatherland, which honors Italy's first king and First World War soldiers. Your history tour will end in Rome’s former Jewish Ghetto, where you will see the Great Synagogue and learn what happened to Roman Jews when Germany occupied the city. Choose a 4-hour tour to see World War II sights in Rome and visit the Liberation Museum. We provide one-way public transport tickets to get there, as it's a short walk away from the heart of Old Rome. The museum is housed in former police headquarters and Nazi prison. On your private tour you will explore 3 floors of exhibitions, including the original conference room, library and prison cells, as well as the hall commemorating the victims of anti-Semitism in Italy and Rome. The WWII artifacts on display will make you feel as if you're back in time, and your Expert Guide will explain in detail the different aspects of WWII in Italy.

Private Guided Tour of the Jewish Quarter in Rome

9. Private Guided Tour of the Jewish Quarter in Rome

Rome’s Jewish Quarter is one of the oldest ghettos in the world. You can now discover its best-kept secrets on a private walking tour with an Expert Guide. Discover Jewish heritage sites and historic synagogues in the heart of Rome’s Old Town. Hear the story of Jews in Italy, from the pre-Christian Roman period, through persecution, expulsions and the Holocaust to the present day. Choose the 2-hour option to see the highlights of Rome’s former Jewish Ghetto. On this walking tour you will follow the path of Jewish people who migrated to Rome during the period of the Roman Empire. You will learn about the Jewish-Roman wars, the dispersal from Judea, and the persecutions and expulsions during the rise of Christianity. The guide will also tell you about the Holocaust and how it affected the local Jewish community in modern times. The Jewish Quarter is hidden between Tiber river and Venezia square, in the heart of ancient Rome. You will pass the monumental Altar of the Fatherland and Teatro Marcello to find the small Church of San Gregorio della Divina Pietà where Jews had to take part in “forced sermons” in an attempt to convert them to Christianity. Nearby is the imposing Tempio Maggiore (Great Synagogue), which was built after the ghetto was liquidated, and the Portico of Octavia, an ancient walkway originally built in the 2nd century B.C. Walk past Tempietto del Carmelo to the Mattei Square to learn about the family who owned the keys to the ghetto and see the famous Turtle Fountain. The tour will end in the lively medieval market square Campo di Fiori.

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What people are saying about Great Synagogue of Rome

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 736 reviews

This tour was absolutely fabulous! Our guide was an incredible story teller- he was so engaging and went way beyond general history of the Jewish people in Rome to tell personal stories both Jews and Romans who helped save lives during WWII. A wonderful tour and super nice, informative tour guide! My wife and I also enjoyed visiting the Great Synagogue of Rome after the tour to round out the experience (about 11 euros/per person to see the museum and a brief guided tour).

What a great way to learn the history of the Jewish people in Rome! Brian was a great guide. We learned a lot of information about the ghetto that we did not previously know. We really enjoyed the small group and time with Brian. The gelato was a nice bonus :) My only advice is if you would like to see the temple post tour, book a tour after Shabbat. Friday afternoon was our only free time. I knew this when going, but the others on our tour didn’t realize.

James was an incredible, knowledgeable guide who spoke about the history of the neighborhood with empathy. He also gave us incredible advice on where to eat for the rest of our stay in Rome.

Our guide Brian was very interesting and full of knowledge, we enjoyed the tour

Knowledgeable. Full of stories that brought ancient times to life