Attractions and Places To See around Colonna - Top 20

The Colonna district in Rome is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Column of Marcus Aurelius in Piazza Colonna, explore the opulent interiors and art collection of Palazzo Colonna, or see the Palazzo di Montecitorio, which houses the Italian Chamber of Deputies. The ancient Temple of Hadrian in Piazza di Pietra is also a notable site.

Yes, the area features several important religious buildings. The Greek Abbey of Saint Nilus, founded in 1004 AD, is a Byzantine-rite abbey known for its historical significance. In the Colonna district of Rome, you can also find the Saint Ignatius of Loyola Church, famous for its trompe-l'oeil ceiling fresco, and the Sant'Andrea delle Fratte Church, which contains original angels designed by Bernini.

For stunning views, hike the Sacred Way - Monte Cavo, a Roman-era paved road leading to a panoramic point called "Occhialone," offering views of Lake Albano and Lake Nemi. The Ruins of Tusculum also provide one of the most beautiful panoramas in the Castelli Romani park. Additionally, the Acqua Donzella Spring is a natural valley with historical significance.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Greek Abbey of Saint Nilus is considered family-friendly. You can also enjoy the Kiosks along the Via dei Laghi, which offer local delicacies and views of Lake Albano, making for a pleasant family stop.

The Colonna area offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Mount Salomone Summit – Cross of Mount Tuscolo loop' or the 'Remains of a Roman cistern loop'. Cyclists can enjoy gravel biking routes such as the 'Pratoni del Vivaro – Sacred Way - Monte Cavo loop' or road cycling routes like the 'Monte Guadagnolo – Fountain of Monte Compatri loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and road cycling guide for Colonna.

In the Colonna district, the Galleria Alberto Sordi (formerly Galleria Colonna) is an Art Nouveau shopping arcade on Via del Corso, offering a variety of shopping and dining options. For a more casual experience with a view, the Kiosks along the Via dei Laghi sell typical Roman delicacies like porchetta sandwiches while overlooking Lake Albano.

The Baronial Palace (Palazzo Baronale) is the main historical sight in the municipality of Colonna, located southeast of Rome. Built by the Colonna family in the 16th century on the site of a Roman castrum, it features an ashlar portal and a double order of five arcades. Part of it was later modified with the erection of the Church of Saint Nicholas in the 18th century.

Yes, the Colonna Garden on the Quirinal Hill is an extensive garden developed by the Colonna family since the 13th century. It offers splendid views of central Rome and features terracing, monumental fountains, ancient statues, and sarcophagi, providing a touch of nature within the city.

The Ruins of Tusculum are the remains of a thriving ancient Lazio town, predating the Roman era. Visitors can explore these historical ruins and enjoy a beautiful panorama of the entire Castelli Romani park from this elevated site.

The Acqua Donzella Spring is a natural valley with a rich history. It is believed to have been a vital water source for ancient inhabitants and is associated with local legends, including the appearance of a maiden guiding people to water. Archaeological findings suggest primitive human settlements, Volscian presence, and even Etruscan artifacts in the area.

Piazza Colonna is the main square of the Colonna district in Rome. It is famous for housing the ancient Column of Marcus Aurelius and is surrounded by significant buildings such as Palazzo Chigi (the official residence of the Prime Minister of Italy), the Galleria Alberto Sordi, and Palazzo Wedekind.

Beyond the well-known sites, the Acqua Donzella Spring offers a blend of natural beauty and local folklore, including tales of apparitions. The historical significance of the site, built over an ancient necropolis, adds to its unique appeal. The Colonna Garden on the Quirinal Hill also provides a serene escape with historical layers often overlooked by first-time visitors.