A trip to Rome is a chance to see world-class attractions you'll never forget.
But you're doing yourself a disservice if you only visit the typical tourist destinations.
Many tourists aren’t aware of the many hidden gems of Rome. These attractions will surely make your visit to Rome all the more memorable.
Here are seven unique spots in Rome that are not to be missed on your trip.
1. Magic Door (Porta Alchemia)
It's easy to walk past Rome's Magic Door (located close to the Piazza Vittorio) and not even realize it. Known in Italian as Porta Alchemia, this door is one of five entries into the original villa of Massimiliano Palombara.
Written on the door is an ancient recipe for converting metal into gold. The recipe ended up on the door after an alchemist disappeared forever, leaving the recipe behind.
Since Massimiliano could not read it, he wrote it on his door. He always hoped that someone would come along who could read it.
If you are interested in ancient languages and symbolism, you could try deciphering the formula!
2. Doria Pamphili Gallery
In Central Rome is the Doria Pamphili Gallery, named after a famous Roman family. It is considered among the country's top museums and has a private collection of artwork.
The museum features pieces by Titian, Velasquez, and Raphael and is located in the family's palace. A highlight of visiting the Doria Pamphili Gallery is seeing the palace's courtyard.
3. Appian Way
Rome's first street was the Appian Way, initially built for military use.
It has since become one of the most underrated attractions. Appian Way stretches 62 km and is Europe's longest and straightest road.
Renovations have made it possible for cars to drive on the road. However, other options include bike tours or walking. It's even possible to ride a horse down the street.
4. St. Callixtus Catacombs
Travelling the Appian Way takes visitors past the St. Callixtus Catacombs.
The catacombs are challenging terrain, and many visitors hesitate to explore the site. But intelligent travellers can choose Vertoe’s services for luggage storage in Rome and can easily explore the catacombs in a few hours.
Guided tours take visitors through one of the many underground layers of the catacombs. The time includes many opened and empty graves. Bones were removed from the tombs to avoid any incidents of vandalism.
Though not viewable to the public, the burial site has approximately 50,000 tombs, along with the Crypt of the Popes and St. Cecilia's grave.
5. Park of the Aqueducts
In South East Rome lies the Park of the Aqueduct. Its most enormous aqueducts are Claudia and Felix.
Aqueduct Claudia dates back to 52 AD during Emperor Claudius’ reign. Aqueduct Felix dates back to the 16th century when Pope Sixtus V built it.
Though it's a popular spot for locals, tourists often overlook it.
But the Park of the Aqueducts is a sight to see at dusk. Visitors reported the view of the trees and the aqueducts was stunning at that time. Another notable sight from the park is the Ancient Via Latina.
6. Nero's Golden House
Also known as Domus Aurea, Nero's Golden House is among Rome's memorable archaeological sites.
It was discovered during the 15th century after a local fell into its underground cave, a massive site of ancient paintings. The paintings belonged to Nero, though gold and gems initially kept there have been taken away.
7. Janiculum Hill
Janiculum Hill is best known for the Piazzale Garibaldi. The neighbourhood is home to the Aqua Paola Fountain and an active cannon. The cannon goes off every day at noon.
These seven overlooked attractions are some of Rome's most unique. Many are quiet and peaceful, rarely ever attracting crowds.
If you’ve already been to Rome but not seen these magnificent sights, we think you need to plan another Roman holiday soon!