Private Jewish Ghetto Walk and The Influence in Roman Cuisine

Back in 1555, a pivotal moment in history reshaped the Roman Jewish community forever. Pope Paul IV established the Jewish Ghetto of Rome, confining the Jewish population to a small, walled area along the Tiber River. Despite the hardships endured, the community’s resilience and cultural richness flourished behind those walls. On this walking tour, you’ll journey through the same narrow alleys and cobbled streets that housed generations of Roman Jews for over three centuries.

As you explore this unique and historic neighborhood, you’ll uncover stories of endurance, faith, and tradition. The Jewish Ghetto is not just a place of history, but a vibrant part of Rome that has left a lasting mark on the city’s culture and cuisine. From age-old synagogues to bustling kosher bakeries and restaurants, you’ll discover how Roman Jewish culinary traditions—such as the beloved fried artichoke—became deeply woven into Rome’s food identity. This is more than a historical walk; it’s a cultural immersion into one of the city's most resilient and flavorful communities.