Campo de’ Fiori & the Ghetto: the heart of medieval Rome
Campo de’ Fiori was medieval Rome's heart but today the district is best known for its lively street market, artisan workshops and quaint shops tucked into charming side streets. For more ancient history, take a look at which are the best Roman ruins: what to see and what to miss in Rome.
Campo de’ Fiori is in many ways Rome’s most appealing square, home to a lively fruit and vegetable market, and flanked by restaurants and cafés. No one really knows how the square came by its name, which means “field of flowers”, but one theory holds that it was derived from the Roman Campus Martius, which used to cover most of this part of town.
Another claims it is named after Flora, the mistress of Pompey, whose theatre used to stand on what is now the square’s northeast corner – a huge complex by all accounts, and the supposed location of Julius Caesar’s assassination. Later, Campo de’ Fiori was an important point on papal processions between the Vatican and the major basilicas of Rome, and a site of public executions.
Nearby, the atmospheric Jewish Ghetto has a more intimate neighbourhood vibe and it's a great area for food. Don't miss carciofi alla giudìa, deep-fried artichokes, they're a Ghetto specialty in spring. For more inspiration, you might like 20 things to do in Rome year round.
Where to stay in Campo de' Fiori
- For luxury stays: Jb Relais Luxury is minutes from Campo de' Fiori and features bedrooms with a mix of period details and contemporary luxuries like chromotherapy showers.
- For romantic stays: Hotel Monte Cenci is close to Campo de' Fiori and the Jewish Ghetto, its bedrooms are smart and guests enjoy great views from the rooftop bar.
- For boutique stays: Argentina Residenza is a six-room hotel in a former noble carriage-house. An elegant affair it features antique ceilings combined with modern amenities.
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