Rome

"The Eternal City"

Explore the Eternal City: Rome

Rome calls you for an experience that no other city can offer. Walk where emperors and gladiators wrote history, admiring the timeless majesty of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Immerse yourself in the cradle of Western civilization, where every stone tells a legend. From the wonders of the Vatican to the Baroque squares enlivened by the Trevi Fountain, art is everywhere.

The Legacy of SPQR

Observe the traces of ancient grandeur engraved in the initials SPQR (Senatus Populusque Romanus), which reminds us how the city was ruled by the Senate and the Roman people. This emblem of antiquity is a testament to a civilization that shaped the world.

Safe Spaces and LGBT Tolerance

Rome is generally considered a safe and tolerant city for LGBT people, especially in central areas and neighborhoods with a lively gay scene, such as Ostiense and Testaccio. In tourist and central areas, attitudes are generally open, and public displays of affection by same-sex couples are common and rarely problematic. The city hosts the large Roma Pride parade, demonstrating the community’s strong presence and visibility.

Despite the trend towards openness, rare incidents of homophobia, biphobia, or transphobia still occur, particularly in peripheral or less frequented areas. Associations periodically record reports of verbal and physical assaults, highlighting the need for vigilance. To combat this, Roma Capitale has shown commitment to promoting inclusion by establishing dedicated offices and help desks, such as municipal LGBTQIA+ help desks. Key organizations like the Gay Center, Il Circolo di Cultura Omosessuale Mario Mieli, and shelters like Casa+ offer support to victims of discrimination or violence.

Access to safe spaces is vital, and the ARCO Card is your key to these havens of safety and acceptance.

Indulge in Roman Cuisine

Roman cuisine is a triumph of strong flavors and simple ingredients, the result of popular and peasant traditions. Here are the specialties you absolutely must try:

  • The Four Kings of First Courses
    • Spaghetti alla Carbonara – The emblem, strictly with guanciale, egg yolk, Pecorino Romano DOP, and black pepper.
    • Bucatini all’Amatriciana – Guanciale, Pecorino, and tomato.
    • Rigatoni alla Gricia – The “mother” of first courses, guanciale, Pecorino cheese, and pepper (without tomato).
    • Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe – Only Pecorino cheese and pepper, creamed to perfection with the cooking water.
  • Appetizers and Street Food
    • Supplì – Rice croquettes stuffed with ragù and melted mozzarella (“al telefono”).
    • Carciofi alla Giudìa – Whole fried artichokes, opened like flowers and made crispy, typical of the Roman Jewish tradition.
  • Classic Main Courses
    • Coda alla Vaccinara – Oxtail stew cooked slowly in tomato sauce and vegetables.
    • Saltimbocca alla Romana – Veal slices with prosciutto and sage, cooked in butter and white wine.
  • The Essential Dessert
    • Maritozzo con la Panna – Soft sweet bread roll filled with generous amounts of whipped cream.

Endless Beauty and Power

Experience the unique atmosphere of the alleys of Trastevere and savor Roman cuisine, concluding your journey in the Eternal City, an inexhaustible treasure trove of beauty and power. Let Rome capture your heart and imagination as you explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights.

Explore the vibrant heart of Rome, where Cruising Bars in Testaccio invite you to connect and celebrate. Experience rejuvenation at our exclusive gay saunas in Rome, or dance the night away at the most electrifying gay nightclubs. With the ARCO Card, unlock a network of monitored safe spaces, ensuring secure and welcoming encounters, whether you're a member or a visitor from a partner club. Your journey to authentic connection begins here.