Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Rome, famously built on seven hills, has its roots deeply embedded in the topography of these ancient heights. Each hill has its own unique history and significance, both in the mythological foundation of Rome and in the city’s development over the centuries. Today, these hills are part of the bustling modern city, but they still carry traces of their ancient past, offering a fascinating journey through time.
1. Palatine Hill (Palatino)
The Palatine Hill is where the legend of Romulus and Remus unfolds. According to mythology, Romulus founded Rome here after killing his brother Remus. The Palatine was later home to emperors, with remnants of their palaces still visible today.
- Today: The Palatine is an archaeological treasure, located between the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus. It offers breathtaking views of ancient Rome and is part of the Parco del Colle Oppio.
- Neighborhood: Near Centro Storico, the hill is a key tourist attraction.
2. Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio)
Known as the political and religious heart of Rome, the Capitoline Hill was home to the Temple of Jupiter and later the center of Roman government. It remains the seat of Rome’s city council today.
- Today: The Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo, is a must-see for visitors. The Capitoline Museums house some of Rome’s most famous sculptures and artworks.
- Neighborhood: Close to the Roman Forum and Piazza Venezia, this area remains a hub of cultural activity.
3. Aventine Hill (Aventino)
The Aventine Hill was originally a plebeian area but later became home to grand villas and churches. A key spot is the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s Dome through the Knights of Malta gate.
- Today: Known for its serene atmosphere, the Orange Garden offers panoramic views of Rome. The hill is also famous for the annual Rose Garden.
- Neighborhood: Aventine is now a quiet, elegant residential area.
4. Quirinal Hill (Quirinale)
Once a site of temples dedicated to Roman gods, the Quirinal Hill now hosts the Quirinale Palace, the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic.
- Today: The Quirinale Palace is open to visitors on certain days and offers guided tours of its opulent halls and gardens.
- Neighborhood: Near Via del Corso, it’s an area filled with historical significance and elegant palazzi.
5. Viminal Hill (Viminale)
The smallest of Rome’s seven hills, the Viminal Hill was largely residential in ancient times. Today, it is home to Rome’s central train station, Termini, and the Palazzo del Viminale, which houses the Ministry of the Interior.
- Today: Visitors to this area will find easy access to transport and the bustling modern life of Rome, though remnants of its ancient history are harder to find.
- Neighborhood: Esquilino, the area around the hill, is a diverse and vibrant district.
6. Esquiline Hill (Esquilino)
The largest of the seven hills, the Esquiline was a fashionable residential area in ancient Rome, home to the grand Domus Aurea of Emperor Nero. It also boasts ancient burial grounds.
- Today: The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four major basilicas, is located here. The nearby Domus Aurea remains an impressive site for visitors interested in ancient Roman luxury.
- Neighborhood: The Esquilino district is known for its multicultural atmosphere and bustling markets.
7. Caelian Hill (Celio)
Historically, the Caelian Hill was home to Roman elites, and several temples and baths were constructed here. The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome’s official cathedral, is located nearby.
- Today: The Villa Celimontana is a popular park on the hill, offering a green escape from the busy city. The area is also home to several lesser-known but beautiful churches, such as Santi Giovanni e Paolo.
- Neighborhood: Close to Colosseum, it’s a quieter part of the city but still rich in history.
An Ancient Foundation and Modern Landmarks
The Seven Hills of Rome are more than just geographical features; they are woven into the mythological, political, and religious identity of the city. Walking these hills today offers not only a glimpse into Rome’s ancient past but also a look at how these areas have evolved into modern neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.
For guests staying at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, exploring the seven hills is a fantastic way to experience both ancient and modern Rome. Whether you are visiting the Palatine Hill, home of the Roman emperors, or strolling through the peaceful Aventine, the city’s layered history will unfold before you.