Campidoglio, aka “Monte Capitolino”, is historically the most important hill of Rome. In ancient times, it served as the religious and political centre of the city and it was redesigned by Michelangelo, who gave it a harmonious and monumental appearance.
Nowadays, it hosts the Musei Capitolini and the headquarter of Rome City Counsil.
It owes its name, derived from the Latin “Capitolium”, to the discovery of a human head during the first Etruscan excavations.
In ancient times, it was the site of the Temple of Zeus “Ottimo Massimo”, the most sacred and majestic temple of the Republic and Empire eras. Nearby stands the “Rupe Tarpea”, a rock where the traitors of the state were thrown from.
In 1471 Pope Sisto 4th inaugurated the Musei Capitolini, and this hill became the most ancient Public Museum of the world.
WHAT TO VISIT
Musei Capitolini: they are housed within the two palaces that border Piazza del Campidoglio. Here we can admire the famous Lupa Capitolina and the original equestrian statue of Marco Aurelio.
Palazzo Senatorio: today it is the headquarter of the Rome City Council.
Basilica di Santa Maria in Aracoeli: it can only be reached by a steep staircase, as it is located at the highest point of the hill. It is famous for the sculpture of the “Santo Bambino”.
Cordonata Capitolina: it is the monumental staircase designed by Michelangelo, that leads to the square starting from Piazza Venezia.
Terrazza di Via Monte Tarpeo: from here visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the Roman Forums.
The Campidoglio represents, maybe more than all the other hills, the soul and the essence of the eternal city.
