Essential Rome Travel Tips by Rory Moulton

Author:Rory Moulton [Rory Moulton]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: EuroExperto
Published: 2021-07-07T00:00:00+00:00

Keyhole with a View

Let’s be frank: Though worth it, most of Rome’s best-known tourist attractions are expensive and crowded. That’s not the case with one special keyhole on Aventine Hill. Not only is it free, but it also affords an unforgettable view of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Every year, thousands of savvy tourists stand before the “Aventine Keyhole” for a keyhole-framed view of the most-famous dome in Christendom.

What’s called the Aventine Keyhole by tourists holds the official title of Knights of Malta Keyhole. That’s right, a famous Christian chivalric order runs this attraction on Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.

Most historians believe a rich guy named Alberico II owned a palace-like structure here dating back to the 930s. In the 1400s, The Knights of Malta took ownership of the property. Famed architect Giovanni Battista Piranesi built the Cavalieri di Malta in the 1760s, where the keyhole now stands. Since the Knights of Malta own this keyhole, you’ll be standing on the Republic of Malta’s soil while in Italy! But, sorry, they won’t stamp your passport.

Take a moment to admire the maritime-themed architecture. And keep your eyes peeled for Masonic symbols adorning the door. If you want to see what’s behind the door and visit the Cavalieri di Malta’s stunning gardens, schedule an appointment online.

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