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Trastevere

The name "Trastevere" literally means 'over the Tiber', since this ancient neighborhood is located on the opposite side of the Tiber river with respect to the other parts of the historic center. Traditionally working-class in nature, it is also claimed by its inhabitants as the authentic quarter of Rome.

During the 1950s Trastevere became the area where many foreign expatriates chose to settle, attracted by the authentic Roman atmosphere of its narrow streets and artisan shops. Since then, the neighborhood has become increasingly commercialized as souvenir stores and pubs started sprouting up alongside some of the more traditional shops and restaurants.

The heart of Trastevere is Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, where you'll find one of the oldest churches in Rome -- the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was first built probably between 221 and 227 by Pope Calixtus, and then reconstructed by Pope Innocent II in 1130, with the addition of a Roman bell tower. On the front one can see a twelfth-century mosaic of the Madonna enthroned with Child.

Trastevere is also the home of Porta Portese, the vast, open air flea market that takes place every Sunday morning. Here you'll find everything from antique bric-a-brac and vintage clothing to delicious "porchetta" sandwiches. The flea market usually sets up stalls around 07.00 and ends around 14.00.

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