Quartiere Coppedè: The Hidden Gem Neighbourhood in Rome

Nestled in the heart of Rome lies a hidden gem that few tourists know about – Quartiere Coppedè.

This whimsical and enchanting neighbourhood is a feast for the eyes, boasting an array of stunning Art Nouveau buildings adorned with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures.

It’s like stepping into a fairytale world filled with mythical creatures, gargoyles, and floral motifs that transport you back to another era.

Despite its proximity to Rome’s bustling center, this neighbourhood remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets – a tranquil oasis brimming with architectural wonders waiting to be discovered by curious travellers seeking something off the beaten path.

That’s the reason why I made sure I carved out time on my busy Rome itinerary to visit here, and I’m so glad did!

In this article, I will share with you everything there is to see and do in this secret neighbourhood.

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Is Quartiere Coppedè Worth Visiting?

Quartiere Coppedè is a hidden gem in Rome that is definitely worth visiting. This enchanting neighbourhood, located between Via Nomentana and Piazza Buenos Aires, was designed by architect Gino Coppedè in the early 20th century.

This beautiful Rome Coppede neighborhood is known for its stunning architecture that combines elements from different styles including medieval, baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau. The buildings are adorned with intricate details such as mythological creatures, gargoyles, frescoes and mosaics which make them truly unique.

Stroll through the narrow streets lined with colourful buildings while admiring the beautiful architecture. One can also enjoy coffee or gelato at one of its charming cafes or restaurants.

If you’re interested in history and architecture or simply looking for something off-the-beaten path to explore during your visit to Rome, then Quartiere Coppede should be on your itinerary. It’s a magical place that will transport you back in time and leave you enchanted by its beauty.

About Quartiere Coppedè Roma

Quartiere Coppedè is a charming and unique neighbourhood located in the heart of Rome, Italy.

It was designed by architect Gino Coppedè in the early 1900s and is known for its whimsical architecture that blends various styles, including Art Nouveau, Gothic Revival, Baroque, and Medieval.

The history of this neighbourhood dates back to 1913 when Gino Coppedè won a competition to design a new residential area in Rome.

The neighbourhood was built between 1913 and 1927 and consists of roughly twenty buildings with over sixty different facades. Each facade has its own distinct style, which makes it truly one-of-a-kind.

Beyond its unique architecture, Quartiere Coppedè offers visitors an opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of Rome that is off the beaten path.

For those interested in pop culture here are some fun facts about this enchanting Rome neighbourhood:

• the House of Gucci starring Lady Gaga was filmed here
• some say that this area of Rome served as inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s description of Diagon Alley in her Harry Potter series
• the movie Inferno was inspired and filmed here due to its whimsical atmosphere

8 Things to See in Quartiere Coppede

1. Arch of the Palaces of the Ambassadors

An impressive way to reach the historic centre of Coppede is through the large arch with a massive outdoor lantern swinging above.

The arch is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. I lost count of the number of cherubs with Greek mythology mask-like faces adorning the arch on both sides.

2. Piazza Mincio Rome

The Piazza Mincio is a picturesque roundabout that leads to four streets.

It’s here where you will find the most impressive Art Nouveau architecture with a fountain in the centre.

3. The Fountain of Frogs (Fontana delle Rane)

The Fountain of Frogs is a delightful work of art and just might be my favourite fountain in Rome. Another charming one is the Turtle Fountain in the Jewish Quarter in Rome.

This charming fountain features four bronze frogs spitting water into a small basin below. The frogs, with their big eyes and friendly expressions, have become something of a symbol of the neighbourhood. It’s perfectly whimsical!

4. Spider Palace (Palazzo del Ragno)

The Spider Palace is an architectural gem that is sure to leave you awe-struck!

The most striking feature of the palace is its spiderweb-shaped decorations, which can be seen throughout the building’s facade. The palace is adorned with ornate balconies and beautifully carved stone details, including a relief of Saint George slaying the dragon.

5. Fairy House (Villino delle Fate)

Fairy House is a stunningly beautiful building that seems to have been plucked straight out of a fairytale.

This enchanting villa is adorned with intricate details, including ornate balconies, whimsical sculptures of fairies and animals, and intricate mosaics that depict scenes from fairytales. One of the most unique features of Fairy House is the rooftop terrace with its mushroom-shaped chimneys.

6. Notable Streets

After you have finished admiring the impressive buildings, arch and fountain designed by the eclectic architect Gino Coppedè it’s time to stroll the nearby streets and admire the Palaces of the Ambassadors that fill this neighbourhood.

Two notable streets include Via Chiana and Via Tagliamento.

7. Villa Torlonia

Villa Torlonia is an impressive villa and gardens originally built in the 18th century for the wealthy Torlonia family, but it was later expanded and renovated by other owners, including Mussolini, who used it as his personal residence during World War II.

The villa’s architecture is a mix of different styles, including neoclassical, Art Deco, and Liberty, and it is adorned with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and mosaics.

One of the highlights of Villa Torlonia is the Casino dei Principi, a magnificent mansion that was built for the Torlonia family and is characterized by its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens.

Other highlights include the Casina delle Civette, a charming building decorated with intricate owl motifs, and the Teatro delle Acque, a stunning fountain that features a series of water displays set to music.

• Address: Via Nomentana 70
• Visiting hours: from Tuesday to Sunday 9 am to 7 pm, check here for the latest information including prices

8. Villa Paganini

Villa Paganini is a neighbourhood park where you will find locals walking their dogs through the winding pathways.

One of the highlights is a small pond with a picturesque footbridge which adds to the charm of this garden.

9. Things to Do Nearby Coppede Quarter Rome

Catacombs of Priscilla

The Catacombs of Priscilla are located on the Via Salaria and date back to the 2nd century AD when they were used as a burial site for early Christian communities. The catacombs are named after the woman who owned the land where they were built.

One of the most impressive features of the catacombs is the Cubiculum of the Veiled Woman, which is adorned with a stunning fresco of a woman with a veil over her head. Visiting here is a must for history buffs and those who like to do things in Rome that are a little off the beaten path.

Villa Ada

Villa Ada is one of the lesser-known gardens in Rome. Located in the northeastern part of the city this is a true oasis spread over a vast area of land.

One of the stand-out features of this garden is the beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery. So much so, this is home to several species of birds and ducks.

Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is one of the most famous gardens in Rome. The park covers over 80 hectares and is home to a variety of gardens, fountains, sculptures, and museums.

One of the park’s most famous attractions is the Borghese Gallery, which is housed in the beautiful 17th-century villa and features an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael.

Best Quartiere Coppede Roma Restaurants

If you’re looking for some authentic dining experiences in Rome, you simply must check out the restaurants in Quartiere Coppede.

Here are my recommendations to check out:

• Santi Sebastiano e Valentino – a modern cafe and bakery featuring homemade bread baked on-site. This is your go-to spot for breakfast and lunch and you simply have to have something that features their homemade bread. I also bought home a bag of coffee beans for my husband.

• Osteria Chiana – is a bistro with a hip vintage vibe with artwork and decor. This is a great lunch or dinner spot, but reservations are required as it is a local favourite.

• Spazio Niko Romito Bar e Cucina Roma – offers a stunning menu of modern Italian cuisine that’s both inventive and said to be delicious. This makes a great dinner option. I wasn’t able to try this restaurant, but will next time I return to Rome.

Where to Stay in Coppede District Rome

As long as you are not a first-timer to Rome the top landmarks, like Vatican City, make for a great neighbourhood to stay.

For those who like to stay in self-catering vacation property rentals check out these holiday apartments:

1. L’Esploratrice – is a spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom 2-storey apartment in an upscale early 20th-century building with original features that is a stone’s throw from Piazza Mincio
2. Jumbo – a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment with open-concept living, dining and kitchen space
3. Casa Sandro – a lovely 1-bedroom apartment with a terrace overlooking an elegant street

Or, if you prefer to stay in a hotel, here are the best choices based on customer ratings:

1. Relais Villa Coppedè – a 4-star property featuring a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and a bar. Hotel rooms are modern and some feature a balcony.
2. Hotel Mercure Roma Corso Trieste – is a modern hotel with updated rooms with spa bathrooms and some have a private balcony.
3. The Hoxton – is a boutique chain hotel that is known for its stylized rooms and customized services. This 4-star hotel features free bikes, a terrace, and a restaurant.

FAQ: Quartier Coppede Rome

As a Holidaymaker

Quartiere Coppedè is truly a hidden gem in Rome.

With its unique architecture, peaceful atmosphere and charming streets, it’s no wonder that so few tourists know about this beautiful neighbourhood.

If you’re planning a trip to Rome anytime soon, be sure to add Quartiere Coppedè to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!

To help with your trip planning be sure to check out my Italy Travel Guide page where you can click on Italy and it will take you directly to a list of articles for Rome and beyond.

I will leave you with one article that is the first question on most travellers’ minds is how long to stay in Rome. If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Rome to see all the highlights:

• How Many Days in Rome is Enough? Detailed itinerary for 1, 2, 3 or 4 days.
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