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Not only the Colosseum, the Mouth of Truth and the Vittoriano, there are some secret places in Rome all to be discovered… Here are some interesting trips to the city if you are tired of seeing the same tourist attractions over and over again.
The hidden window on the Aventine
Reach the basilica of Santa Sabina, one of the most beautiful and ancient basilicas in Rome, and access it through the side entrance. Following the corridor, you will come to a small oval window. From this hole in the wall you can see the orange tree from the convent of Santa Sabina, which apparently was the first to be transplanted in Italy, thanks to the seed transported by St. Dominic from Spain. This tree is considered miraculous because it continues to bear fruit after centuries. Today it is one of the oldest in Europe!
Lapis Diaboli
Also in the basilica of St. Sabina you can admire “the devil’s stone.” As you cross the threshold, on the left you will see a black stone on a pillar. According to the legend on the Lapis Diaboli, Satan threw a stone at St. Dominic to interrupt his prayers. The stone, however, did not hit the saint but broke a burial slab. After being reassembled, the stone showed holes and scratches (demonic?).
The Monkey Tower
A short walk from Piazza Navona, at 31 Via dei Pianellari, we find the monkey tower. Why this name? According to legend, a monkey kidnapped an infant from its cradle and carried it to the top of this tower. The terrified parents prayed to the Virgin to save him. In fact, if you notice correctly, there is still a statue of Our Lady at the top with a lamp illuminating it at night.
The hidden clock
Did you know that there is a water clock in the park of Villa Borghese? Yes, in Clock Avenue you can unearth the creation of Dominican friar John Baptist Embriaco dating back to 1867, made by the Granaglia brothers. Its operation is peculiar: the hands move thanks to the water inside the two pans. Since 1873 this clock has been located in Roman Park.
The underground lakes
A short distance from the Colosseum, we find some underground ponds. It is fascinating to discover such a mysterious place, as we still do not know for sure how these bodies of water were formed. To visit them, you must book a visit with Roma Sotterranea.
The labyrinth under the ground
In the Caffarella park you can visit the capital’s largest underground labyrinth, where pozzolan was once mined and in more recent years mushrooms were grown. The excursions are organized by the Sotterranei di Roma association with an experienced guide.
The mosque in Rome
Did you know that Rome has the largest Islamic place of worship? It is located in the Parioli district and can be visited free of charge. It is a space featuring beautiful modern architecture, a prayer room and geometric mosaics. Before you go to 85 Mosque Avenue, we recommend that you inquire about openings by writing to gtmaktaba@gmail.com.