Roseto Comunale (Municipal Rose Garden), Rome

Make sure not to miss a visit to the stunning Roseto Comunale on Aventine Hill, which becomes a captivating sight during the brief weeks when the roses are in bloom. This world-renowned rose garden was formerly the Jewish cemetery from the 17th century until 1934 when it was relocated to Verano. In 1950, the Town Council acquired the land, and in 1956, the garden was unveiled. To honor its past, a small Star of David adorns the entrance gate, while the paths within the garden are meticulously arranged to form the shape of a menorah.

The design of the garden reflects the rich history of roses from ancient times to the present day. Offering excellent panoramic views of the historic Circus Maximus chariot track, the garden is divided into two distinct parts. The first section showcases roses that have been bred specifically for national and international competitions, as well as exclusive varieties that are not commonly available in commercial outlets. In the second section, you will encounter the permanent collection, organized into three categories: ancient, botanical, and modern.

Within the botanical section, you will discover the oldest specimens, many of which may be familiar from public parks or even your own garden. Surprisingly, the "ancient" section, despite its name, features a splendid display of roses bred through cross-pollination with flowers from the botanical section. The modern section is brimming with exquisite flowers resulting from hybridization efforts starting from the 19th century onwards, showcasing the continuous advancement in rose breeding techniques.