Janiculum Hill

Overview

Although technically just outside the boundaries of the ancient Seven Hills, the Janiculum Hill (Il Gianicolo) definitively offers the single most spectacular, sweeping, and romantic panoramic view over the entire expanse of Rome.

Highlights

• The View: Looking east from the Piazza Garibaldi plaza, you can clearly trace the entire skyline from the Vittoriano monument to the distant Alban Hills, with the domes of the historic center laid out below.
• The Cannon: At 12:00 PM every single day since 1847, a military cannon fires a blank shot from the base of the hill to flawlessly synchronize all the church bells in Rome.
• Fontana dell'Acqua Paola: (Il Fontanone) A massive, spectacular 17th-century monumental fountain located slightly down the hill, famously featured in the opening scene of the film The Great Beauty.

History

The hill is dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi and the bloody 1849 defense of the short-lived Roman Republic against the attacking French army. The entire ridge is lined with massive bronze statues honoring Garibaldi, his wife Anita (depicted on horseback holding her baby while firing a pistol), and his fallen soldiers.

Visitor Tips

• The Climb: It is a steep, significant walk up from Trastevere. If you want to avoid the climb, take bus 115 from the river.
• Sunset: The atmosphere here as the sun drops behind the Vatican and bathes the city in golden light is unmatched.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.