Via dei Quintili
Explore Via dei Quintili and the secrets of the Quadraro on a bike tour: discover street art, the history of the Resistance, and the Villa dei Quintili with local expert guides. Rent a Vespa and discover Rome like a true Roman: from Via dei Quintili to the Aqueducts Park, an unforgettable experience among historical monuments and natural beauty. Hop aboard a scooter and visit Rome from a different perspective, for a tour through history, art and breathtaking views. Bike along Via dei Quintili and the Quadraro: an immersive tour through history, urban art and the greenery of the Aqueducts Park.
What you need to know about Via dei Quintili
Via dei Quintili is a street in the southeastern part of Rome, located in the Quadraro neighborhood near Via Tuscolana. It is a residential area with access to various local amenities, such as stores, cafes, and green areas. The street is named after the ancient Quintili family, which owned a large villa complex, the Villa dei Quintili, located along the nearby Via Appia Antica. Via dei Quintili is located in a historic and culturally rich neighborhood of Rome, the Quadraro, known for its resilience during World War II and for its characteristic mix of public housing and urban artwork. This street is close to important archaeological sites and natural beauty, including:
Villa dei Quintili: Located along the Via Appia Antica, this is one of the most extensive imperial villas in ancient Rome, built in the second century AD. Owned by the Quintili brothers, the villa features baths, mosaics, statues and a breathtaking view of the Roman countryside.
Aqueduct Park: A vast green park where the remains of ancient Roman aqueducts are visible, including the Claudian Aqueduct and the Felice Aqueduct. It is an ideal place for walking, jogging or picnicking, surrounded by a picturesque atmosphere.
Street Art in the Quadraro: The neighborhood is home to numerous murals and artworks by local and international artists, part of the M.U.Ro (Museum of Urban Art in Rome) project. This initiative has transformed the neighborhood into an open-air gallery.
St. Polycarp Church: A modern church built in the 1960s, it represents an example of contemporary religious architecture.
Local markets and stores: The area is home to local markets, stores, bars, and restaurants offering local products and typical Roman cuisine, contributing to an authentic and lively environment.
Curiosities
Quadraro and Resistance: During World War II, the Quadraro was a focal point of the anti-fascist resistance. Known as “the hornet’s nest” by the Germans, the neighborhood was subject to a famous roundup in April 1944, where over 900 people were deported. This memory of resistance is still keenly felt among residents.
M.U.Ro and Street Art: The M.U.Ro (Urban Museum of Rome) project, founded by artist David “Diavù” Vecchiato, has transformed the Quadraro into one of Rome’s most colorful neighborhoods. Artists were invited to tell the story of the place and its people through murals and installations that adorn the walls of buildings and tell episodes of daily life and stories of the community.
Villa of the Quintili and the Curse of the Quintili: The Quintili family was one of the richest and most powerful in Rome, but their fortune attracted the attentions of Emperor Commodus, who had them killed in order to take possession of the villa. This tragic story gave rise to a curse legend attached to the villa, which has been considered a place of restless spirits for centuries.
Aqueduct Park and the Movies: This park has been used as a set for many famous movies, including Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita” and Paolo Sorrentino’s “La Grande Bellezza.” The unique landscape of the ancient aqueducts is in great demand in the movies, and some residents tell of seeing the filming of famous productions in the neighborhood.
Fascist-era structures: Some of the Quadraro’s architecture dates from the Fascist period, such as the district market and some school buildings. Styles from the period have often been reinterpreted or juxtaposed with modern urban art, creating a distinctive architectural mix.
Porta Furba Market: This local market, near Via dei Quintili, is known for its authentic character and affordable prices. It is a perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in the daily life of the neighborhood, where you can find fresh produce, household items, and more, served by local vendors.