Mystery Rome

Rome has countless attractions and an endless supply of historical sites and features. Not all of its treasures are readily visible, however. Take a drive through Rome to discover its best enigmas and peculiarities, and have your guide fill you in on the city’s mysteries. Bring your tickets to see the sites from the inside!

The glamor of the Aventino district is consistent with its history. It was built on top of one of Rome’s seven hills and was home to much of the Roman aristocracy, and now it is a high-class neighborhood with lovely sights and luxurious dining and shopping. A special, peculiar attraction in the district is the Aventine Keyhole, or the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta, which can be found at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. The “keyhole” is an open doorway in the villa that provides a spectacular view of one of Rome’s most beloved features.

The Church of Santa Sabina is unique in its construction: as far as basilicas go, it still retains much of its original shape. The basilicas of Rome were once multipurpose civil buildings for ancient Romans, but beginning with Constantine the Great, the structures were converted and rebuilt to be Catholic churches. Santa Sabina is the oldest basilica in Rome that still has so much of its original design intact. Unlike many cathedrals in the city, Santa Sabina is largely ungilded from the exterior.

The Orange Garden, one of the most romantic spots in the entirety of Rome, is host to a strange fountain at the entrance. Built into the wall is what used to serve as a thermal bath, and a large, unfriendly face rests over it as the fountain spout.