Aventine Hill Rome: What to See and Why You Should Visit

🏛️ Rome and Its Legendary Seven Hills

Ancient Rome, the eternal city, was famously built on seven hills. These hills not only shaped the geography of Rome but also played a crucial role in its early development. The seven hills are:

1. Aventine Hill 🧡 – 2. Caelian Hill – 3. Capitoline Hill – 4. Esquiline Hill – 5. Palatine Hill – 6. Quirinal Hill – 7. Viminal Hill

Each hill has its own history, stories, and secrets to tell. Among them, the Palatine and the Aventine Hill stand out for their mythological and architectural significance.

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🏺 The Founding of Rome: Myth and Memory

According to legend, the founding of Rome goes back to around 750 BC. It all started on the Palatine Hill with the famous twin brothers Romulus and Remus 👬. The two brothers had a disagreement and decided to part ways, each aiming to establish their own city.

• Romulus chose the Palatine Hill.

• Remus selected the Aventine Hill.

However, things didn’t end peacefully. After a tragic conflict, Romulus killed his brother Remus ⚔️ and became the sole founder of the city. Remus was buried on the Aventine Hill, adding even more mystery to this already fascinating place.

Eventually, Romulus expanded the settlement from the Palatine and named the city Roma — which we know today as Rome 🇮🇹.

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❤️ ROMA = AMOR?

Here’s a fun fact! Have you ever looked at the word “ROMA” in reverse? It spells “AMOR”, the Latin word for love 💘. Just another little sign that this city is full of romance, stories, and soul.

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🌳 Highlights of the Aventine Hill

Today, the Aventine Hill is a peaceful and elegant neighborhood, often missed by the typical tourist — but absolutely worth your time. Here are the top spots to explore:

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🔑 The Aventine Keyhole

One of the most unique attractions in Rome is the keyhole at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. Peeking through this small keyhole, you’ll see a perfectly framed view of the dome of Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican 🎯.

📌 Tip: While this spot used to be a well-kept secret, it has become quite popular in recent years. For shorter waiting times, visit during early mornings, lunchtime, or late afternoons.
👉 Show on Google Maps

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🍊 The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)

Just a short walk from the keyhole, you’ll find the Orange Garden, known in Italian as Giardino degli Aranci. Open all year, this serene park offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Rome.

🌸 In spring — especially April — the garden is filled with the scent of blooming orange trees, making it a perfect spot for couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of calm above the busy city.

💍 Many wedding photos are taken here thanks to the view, the light, and the romantic atmosphere.

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⛪ Basilica of Santa Sabina

One of the city’s oldest and most important early Christian churches, the Basilica of Santa Sabina all’Aventino dates back to the 5th century.

Its structure follows the classic Roman basilica layout — rectangular with three naves. Yet, the highlight is its ancient wooden door, believed to be from the 6th century. It features what may be the oldest surviving depiction of the Crucifixion of Jesus 🙏.

This sacred and quiet place feels worlds away from the crowds of the Colosseum or the Vatican — and yet, it’s right in the heart of Rome.