The Pyramid of Cestius, located in the heart of the Eternal City, is one of the most unique and fascinating monuments in Rome. This ancient mausoleum, built between 18 and 12 BC, offers a unique fusion of history and architecture and is among the best preserved Roman monuments. But why is there a pyramid in Rome? Here’s everything you need to know.
The history of the Pyramid of Cestius
The Pyramid of Cestius is a funerary monument that was built as a tomb for Gaius Cestiusa praetor and tribune of the plebs who lived in the 1st century BC. Its construction is due to a very particular “fashion”: after the conquest of Egypt even the Romans began to appreciate the custom of building pyramid-shaped tombs. The work was completed in just 330 days, as attested by the Latin inscriptions found on the external façade, given that the praetor had set this limit so that his children could collect their inheritance.
The structure stands out for its clear geometry and imposing dimensions: approximately 36 meters high and with a square base of approximately 30 meters per side. Today it is the last extant example of this construction in Rome. Although it was profaned, probably in medieval times, for a long period it was confused with the Remo’s tombmythical founder of the city.
Can the Pyramid of Cestius be visited?
This curious monument can be visited, but only during extraordinary openings communicated by the Superintendence. This means that you will have to wait for the next available dates to book on the appropriate online form. In the surrounding area, it is also possible to visit (without reservation) the Non-Catholic Cemetery of Romewhere poets, nobles and intellectuals are buried.
What is inside the Pyramid of Cestius
Many will surely have seen it from the outside, and therefore there is a strong curiosity to know what’s inside. Since it is a funerary monument, it is there inside the burial chamber of Gaius Cestius. However, unlike the pharaohs, there are no jewels or precious objects found inside the pyramid: at the time the emperor Augustus had prohibited the ostentation of luxury, and the law also applied to graves.
How to get to the Pyramid of Cestius
To reach the Pyramid of Cestius you won’t have to leave the center. Located between Testaccio and Via Ostiense, you can reach it both by car and public transport. In particular:
- By metro: the nearest station is Pyramidserved by line B, which is located a few steps from the monument.
- On the train: nearby there is both the Roma Ostiense train station and the Porta San Paolo Metromare station.
- By tram or bus: Tram line 3 or several bus lines pass from here.
What’s around the Pyramid of Cestius
The visit to the Pyramid of Cestius is not limited to contemplating this ancient mausoleum. In addition to the Non-Catholic Cemetery which has already been mentioned, you can visit various things:
- Basilica of San Paolo: consecrated in the 4th century AD, it is one of the most important early Christian basilicas in Rome.
- Testaccio neighborhood: traditional and lively area of the capital, it is known for its covered market and the slaughterhouse, which often hosts exhibitions and exhibitions.
- Trastevere district: very famous area of Rome, it is full of life, clubs, but also places to visit such as the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere.
- Aventine: one of the hills of Rome, it is known for the Orange Garden, for the very ancient churches and for the famous “keyhole”.
Living in Rome
Rome it is a place to be admired at all hours and in all seasons. Its temperate climate and proximity to the sea make it the perfect place to decide to move to. With idealista you will be able to discover the best neighborhoods to live in Rome and choose the house that best suits your interests.
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