Housing many art pieces and monuments, Celio is one of the most ancient districts, also known as “Rione”, in Rome. Its name comes from an Etruscan nobleman called Celio Vibenna that lived there in the 6th century and it’s located on one of the seven hills of Rome.
It’s nowadays a central area surrounded by a lot of culture and also bars and restaurants for people to gather.
Let’s explore Rione Celio in Rome and discover the best things you can see in this district!
Visit the Colosseum
Starting from the obvious, the Colosseum is definitely a must-see when visiting Rione Celio, have a look at our Colosseum Tours.
Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was built by emperor Vespasian and his son Tito, belonging to the Flavian dynasty, between 72 and 80 A.
Back in ancient Rome, the Colosseum was a gathering place for people to go see and visit all kinds of shows, starting from gladiator fights and ending with Naumachie, staged naval battles depicting powerful scenes of war.
It was named the “Colosseum” during the Middle Age because this amphitheater is near a huge statue of Nero that was referred to as the “Colossus of Nero”!
Nowadays it’s a core element and symbol of the Eternal city of Rome and it’s visited by over 6 million tourists each year!
Basilica di San Clemente
If you’re taking a stroll through Rione Celio, you could also visit the San Clemente Basilica. Just a five-minute walk from the Colosseum, the San Clemente Basilica is a minor church dedicated to Pope Clement I.
Its structure actually consists of three different buildings tied together over the centuries with the many restorations and changes this basilica had to go through.
Nowadays it’s a beloved destination for pilgrims and students all over the world! If you are interested in a visit you can check our underground and ancient Rome Private Tour.
The Arch of Costantine
The Arch of Constantine is one of the largest triumphal arches in the world and the only one that remains intact to this day in Rome.
Built to honor the emperor Constantine and his battles, especially his win at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, it’s divided into three arches decorated with many reliefs and bas-reliefs representing battles and the faces of the Emperors that came before Constantine. It’s believed though that Constantine had their faces remodeled to his liking and so the ones we see on the Arch are not corresponding to reality.
Another interesting fact about the Arch of Constantine is that it was apparently built with pieces of monuments that were built during the Empire of Marcus Aurelius, Hadrian and Trajan and that seems to be the first time that materials were recycled in history!
Basilica di Santa Maria in Domnica
Another important basilica located in Rione Celio in Rome is Basilica di Santa Maria in Domnica. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it dates back to the 5th century AD and it’s built-in Carolingian Renaissance style.
There are many different opinions about the origin of the name “in Domnica”. One of the most believed ones is that its name derives from the Latin “dominicum” which means “of the Lord”.
Villa Celimontana Park
One of the most popular parks amongst locals is Villa Celimontana Park. Located near Santa Maria in Domnica with its main entrance located in piazza della Navicella, this garden is filled with monuments and art from the Flavian and Trajan Empires.
It’s definitely a great way to escape the frenzy of the city of Rome for a little while and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and art in this park!
Conclusion
Rione Celio surely is one of the best districts in the city of Rome. If you want to get to know more about the Eternal City, make sure to check out our blogs and book a private tour with us to fully explore and experience the beauty of Rome!
