In the heart of the capital, a forgotten gem has finally reopened (after 12 years), offering a sublime and unprecedented view of the Imperial Forums. It is the perfect escape for this season: we are talking about the Belvedere Cederna! Once part of the ancient Velia hill, this spectacular terrace suspended above history offers a breathtaking view stretching from the Basilica of Maxentius to the legendary silhouette of the Colosseum.
The reopening and when to go
After twelve years of closure due to subway construction, this space is once again open to the public. It is a rejuvenating walk that we highly recommend you discover to enjoy the Roman sun amid archaeology and nature!
An imperial balcony in the center of the Eternal City
This splendid panoramic viewpoint owes its current form to the work carried out in 1937, but today it is reborn with a new mission: to transform itself from a simple place of passage into a veritable Agora. Dedicated to the memory of Antonio Cederna —the intellectual who fought strenuously for the protection of the Appia Antica and the environmental heritage—the belvedere can be reached via the Clivo di Acilio, recently redeveloped to welcome Romans and tourists alike.
Strolling along its avenues, you can admire:
- A 180-degree view overlooking Via dei Fori Imperiali
- An urban reforestation project that will see the planting of new pine trees, pomegranates, and native species
- Just behind the terrace stands Villa Rivaldi, another Roman treasure awaiting restoration
Not just a street, but an open-air living room
Photo: Municipality of Rome Facebook
The goal of the reopening, enthusiastically supported by the Campidoglio, is to restore awareness to the city. Belvedere Cederna is no longer just a point connecting “A to B” (as Mayor Gualtieri commented), but a place to stop, reflect, and admire the millennial stratification of Rome. Thanks to the Velia hills, you will feel as if you are dominating the fascinating archaeological area, immersed in unexpected silence just a few meters from the chaos of the city.
Useful information:
📍Location: Via dei Fori Imperiali, 43, Rome. Price: Free. Open 7 days a week.