Rome, with its 2,777 years of history, boasts an impressive array of archaeological monuments in its city center, including iconic sites like the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, and Roman Forum. As the city moves towards its third millennium, city leaders are working on a new vision for this area, aiming to transform it into a pedestrian-friendly public space that celebrates Rome’s ancient past. The project aims to leverage the rich history, art, and culture of Rome to attract visitors and locals alike.
The proposed plan has sparked some controversy, with critics expressing concerns that turning the center of Rome into a pedestrian-only area could transform it into a tourist-centric amusement park, displacing residents and shifting congestion to neighboring areas. However, proponents of the project argue that it will create a more welcoming and accessible space for both locals and visitors, while showcasing the city’s archaeological treasures and promoting sustainable transportation options.
The project, spearheaded by the architectural firm Labics, will create an extensive archaeological walk linking Rome’s Imperial Fora with other historical sites, including Palatine Hill, Circus Maximus, and Capitoline Hill. The area will feature pedestrian zones, new public spaces, and walking paths, as well as bike paths, trees, and gardens. Public transportation will be reorganized, and terraces will offer views of the archaeological sites from above, providing a deeper understanding of Rome’s layered history.
The planned archaeological walk, once completed, will be the largest urban archaeological area in the world, with nearly 19 million euros earmarked for the initial phase of the project. The project also includes the permanent closure of the Via dei Fori Imperiali to traffic in about a decade, aligning with the construction of a new subway line and the opening of a station in Piazza Venezia in 2033. This move aims to preserve the historic street as a monumental thoroughfare and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment in the city center.
The project has been a long time coming, with plans for a monumental archaeological area in downtown Rome dating back to the 19th century. While previous attempts to implement such a project were unsuccessful, the current initiative aims to finally bring this vision to life. City officials are hopeful that the revamped area will draw suburban Romans downtown and provide a space for locals and visitors to appreciate the city’s rich history and culture.
The mayor of Rome and the architects leading the project are eager to get started on the next phase of the project, with plans to begin work on the archaeological walk by September. The ultimate goal is to create a welcoming and vibrant space where Romans can gather, stroll, and appreciate the historical significance of their city. By preserving the past and creating a sustainable, pedestrian-friendly environment, the project aims to celebrate Rome’s ancient heritage while providing a space for community engagement and connection.
