In My Hood: Out and About in Pigneto, Rome

Sure, Rome has countless ancient ruins, and many of them are must-see sights. But the city also knows how to impress in areas without tourist magnets like the Colosseum or the Pantheon. A prime example: Pigneto in the eastern part of Rome.

This neighborhood, which has a magical pull on me, was once home to railway and factory workers due to its proximity to the main train station, Termini. Their history is still documented on the walls and buildings today, some of which I painted myself.

Strolling through Pigneto at a leisurely pace and with eyes peeled is the best way to capture the spirit of the neighborhood. And, of course, in the restaurants, cafés, and shops. For example, at Lo Yeti, where alongside delicious pasta and crisp salads made from organic and local produce, you can also find intellectual nourishment in the form of books.

The Dar Ciriola might look rather plain, but it’s a typical Italian coffee bar with simply amazing sandwiches. Film enthusiasts are drawn to the Necci dal 1924 restaurant and café, which gained fame as a location in Pier Paolo Pasolini’s classic Italian film “Accattone.” The food here is also impressive. As a native Roman, I’ve naturally tried countless gelaterias and, after an estimated hundred thousand scoops, I know where it tastes particularly good: at Fattori Gelateria in Pigneto. Perfect for a sweet refreshment.

During the day, you’ll often find me at the feminist bookstore Libreria Tuba, which not only has a top-notch selection, but is also a meeting point for the feminist community. In the evening, I like to go to Nuovo Cinema Aquila. The cinema has been around since the 1950s – it has, of course, been renovated in the meantime. The program features international and Italian independent films, socially critical and experimental works. Just my taste.

The Parco delle Energie park with ex-Snia Lake offers a green escape from urban life in Pigneto. In the 1990s, the old industrial facilities gave way to meadows and water. The result: not only a beautiful recreational area but also a visible and usable symbol of the success of the citizens’ movement in Rome, which is committed to the preservation of green spaces and the promotion of biodiversity.

If you still crave ancient ruins, visit the Parco del Torrione Prenestino: in the middle of the park, there is an ancient mausoleum of a wealthy Roman family. Naturally, the old Romans also left their mark on Pigneto.

Taste the scene: Discover Pigneto's best craft breweries on a private craft beer tour through GetYourGuide. Delicious beer creations and plenty of insights into alternative Rome – ideal for connoisseurs and explorers.

Alice Pasquini was born in Rome and works as a street artist, illustrator, and set designer. As one of the most well-known female representatives of the street art movement, Alice’s art focuses on strong and independent women. Her preferred “canvases” are city walls.