Garbatella Walking Tour (Self Guided), Rome

Garbatella is one of the most charming, intriguing, hippest and appealing neighborhoods in Rome. It was created in the 1920s for the working classes and was modeled on English garden suburbs. The laidback and carefree vibe is infectious and the eclectic architecture is a thrilling mix of numerous styles. Among them are late Baroque, Art Deco and styles influenced by the 17th-century architect Francesco Borromini.

Stroll through the attractive streets and observe the maze of courtyards, each one featuring their own gardens, squares, balconies and stairs. Check out some of the neighborhood's more notable buildings. At the Piazza Bartolomeo Romano find the Palladium Theater with its convex and concave opposing lines. Study the grand Public Elementary School Cesare Battisti, built in 1930. See the stately looking carvings of eagles over the tall entrance. Above them is a squat tower topped by a skeletal-looking dome.

Come for lunch and dinner and savor the glorious local cuisine. Garbatella basks in a glowing reputation among foodies for its authentic traditional cuisine, served up in a host of welcoming trattorias. Some have a shabby rustic appearance that is as inviting as the food is delicious.