When I wandered into the Jewish Quarter in Rome, I didn’t expect to feel such a strong sense of place.
Tucked away from the city’s busier spots, this historic neighbourhood invites you to slow down and look closer.
As I explored its narrow streets, I found layers of history, culture, and daily life unfolding in quiet, meaningful ways.
I’ll walk you through what you’ll see in the Jewish Quarter of Rome—from ancient ruins and family-run bakeries to synagogues and stories that have endured for centuries.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read my Affiliate Disclosure.
Is the Jewish Quarter in Rome Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—and not just for what’s on the surface. This small neighbourhood holds one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe, dating back over 2,000 years.
Walking through its streets, you can still sense the weight of history—from the time of the Roman Empire to the tragedies of World War II. But it’s not only about the past. What makes this area so interesting is how history and daily life exist side by side.
You’ll see children playing near ancient ruins, locals chatting over coffee, and the Great Synagogue standing tall as a symbol of resilience. Surprisingly, there are gardens in this quaint area of Rome.
This area of Rome always seems to manage its way onto my itinerary every time I’m in Rome (three times, and counting!).
What to See in the Jewish Quarter of Rome
Here’s what I saw—and loved—while exploring the Jewish area in Rome. Each spot has earned its spot on my list of what I think you should see in this neighbourhood.
The Synagogue – Tempio Maggiore (La Sinagoga)
The Great Synagogue of Rome stands along the Tiber. Built in the early 1900s, it’s both a place of worship and a symbol of Jewish resilience.
I toured the inside, where the Moorish-style interior surprised me with its elegance. It also houses the Jewish Museum, which offers powerful insights into the community’s long history in Rome.
I read about the daring rescue of many Jewish families being hidden in the basement during World War II, saving them from being sent to concentration camps.
đź“Ť Lungotevere de Cenci
Octavia’s Portico
This is where ancient Rome and the Jewish Quarter seem to overlap most. Originally built in the 2nd century BC and later repurposed during the Middle Ages, the ruins of the portico once marked a grand entrance to temples and libraries.
Today, it’s surrounded by kosher restaurants and quiet alleyways. I stood there imagining centuries of life unfolding in the same spot before I set out to wander the Via Del Portico d’Ottavia, a historic street that runs through the heart of the Jewish Ghetto in Rome.
đź“Ť Portico d’Ottavia, 29
Marcello’s Theatre (Teatro Marcello)
Often mistaken for the Colosseum at first glance, this open-air theatre was begun by Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus in 13 BC.
It was once filled with music and performances—now, apartments are built right into the structure. It felt surreal to stand in front of something so old that it’s still part of daily life. And that describes Rome perfectly.
đź“Ť Via del Teatro di Marcello
Turtle Fountain (Fontana Delle Tartarughe)
Rome has a lot of incredible fountains, but this just might be my favourite. It’s a small but graceful fountain tucked away in Piazza Mattei. I found myself smiling at the bronze turtles climbing into the basin—an addition from the 17th century that gives the fountain its name. It’s one of those little corners of Rome that’s easy to miss but stays with you long after you leave.
đź“Ť Piazza Mattei
Palazzo Mattei
Just behind the Turtle Fountain is this Renaissance palace, once home to the influential Mattei family. The courtyard is open to the public and filled with ancient statues and fragments. I wandered in by chance and ended up staying longer than I thought, enjoying the quiet and the unexpected Renaissance architecture and artwork.
This is one of those gems you don’t want to miss.
đź“Ť Via Michelangelo Caetani, 32
Carmelo Temple (Tempietto del Carmelo)
This tiny, almost hidden temple stands at the edge of the ruins of the Portico d’Ottavia. Built in the 18th century on top of earlier Roman structures, it blends layers of history in one spot. It has wrought iron grills and gates, and unfortunately, the nearby restaurant lines its garbage bins beside it. I’m hoping that one of these trips, I will be able to snap a decent photo.
đź“Ť Piazza Costaguti, 18
Piazza delle Cinque Scole
This square once held five Jewish schools (scuole) and Synagogues, which is how it got its name. Only one remains, Tempio Maggiore. The square is surrounded by restaurants and local shops, with a fountain and parking in the centre, but I still think it’s worth visiting. Do what the locals do, it’s a great place to sit, rest, and watch life unfold. I stopped for a pastry here and enjoyed the slower pace of the neighbourhood.
đź“Ť Pizza della Cinque Scole, 20
Piazza Margana
A little off the main path, this piazza feels like a secret. It’s quiet, shaded, and ringed by medieval buildings. I loved the contrast it offered to the more busy Roman piazzas—simple, intimate, and somehow more personal.
đź“Ť Piazza Margana, 21
Fabricio Bridge (Ponte Fabricio)
This ancient stone bridge connects the Jewish Quarter to Tiber Island and has done so since 62 BC. Yes, that’s over 2,000 years old. I walked across it, imagining all the feet that had crossed before mine. It’s the oldest bridge in Rome still in use, and it’s held up remarkably well.
The bridge has a unique design, with two arches that rest on a central island and offer beautiful views of the river and the city.
Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina)
Crossing into Tiber Island felt like stepping into another tiny world. It has a hospital, a church, and a lovely riverside path. In ancient times, it was associated with healing, and today, it still feels like a place where things slow down. Young people come to hang out, families come here for a stroll, and street performers come to play or sing.
I linger here too, and it’s absolutely charming.
Thinking of wandering the Jewish Quarter in Rome on your own? You definitely can—but a guided tour adds so much depth. You’ll hear stories behind the ruins, understand the significance of small details you might otherwise miss, and gain insight into centuries of Jewish life in Rome. If you want to experience more than just the sights, as I’ve shared them here, a guided walking tour is what I would recommend.
Don’t Leave Rome’s Jewish Ghetto Without Eating Here
The Jewish Ghetto in Rome is home to some of the best food I’ve had in the city, with Trastevere restaurants being a close second.
If you’re visiting in spring, time your trip with the Artichoke Festival—it runs from late March into April, and it’s a real treat. Via del Portico d’Ottavia turns into a showcase of carciofi (artichokes), piled high in towers, and nearly every restaurant offers a fixed menu where this vegetable takes center stage.
My favourite? Nonna Betta. It’s beloved for a reason. I had the eggplant parmigiana—simple, flavourful, and perfect.
Su’Ghetto made me feel right at home as a solo vegetarian traveller. I tried their 4-course artichoke menu during the festival—three hits, one miss, but still worth it.
Al Pompiere was fully booked, so I’ve added it to my must-try list for next time.
Others that came highly recommended: Taverna del Ghetto, Ba’Ghetto, and Sora Margherita.
Final Thoughts
The Jewish Quarter in Rome left a lasting impression on me—rich in history, flavour, and quiet beauty.
Ready to explore another hidden gem?
Don’t miss the whimsical charm of this Rome neighbourhood, Coppede Quarter—it’s like stepping into a storybook. Or, there’s more to see in Vatican City than the Vatican Museums.
