When you think of things in Rome, the mind usually jumps to ancient ruins and famous piazzas. But the Eternal City has a treasure trove of unusual, quirky, and downright surprising things in Rome that most visitors overlook. If you want to see a different side of the city, here's a guide to unexpected things in Rome that will delight and surprise you.
1. The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità)
One of the strangest things in Rome is this ancient marble mask in the portico of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Legend says it bites off the hands of liars—perfect for a fun photo and a dash of medieval superstition.
2. The Keyhole of the Knights of Malta
Peek through this tiny keyhole on Aventine Hill to see a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica—an optical illusion and one of the most charming secret things in Rome.
3. The Museum of Pasta
Yes, there's a museum dedicated solely to pasta! This quirky spot explores Italy's culinary obsession and is one of the most deliciously unexpected things in Rome.
4. The Pyramid of Cestius
A true oddity in Rome's landscape, this ancient pyramid stands out among classical ruins. It's one of the most peculiar yet fascinating things in Rome to discover off the beaten path.
5. The Street Art of Ostiense
Venture into the Ostiense district to find incredible murals and street art, showcasing modern creativity and a different kind of culture among the classical things in Rome.
6. The Crypt of the Capuchin Monks
Beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione lies a crypt decorated entirely with the bones of thousands of monks. It's a macabre but fascinating thing in Rome that tells a story about life, death, and faith.
7. The Talking Statues of Rome
Rome has a set of statues known as “talking statues” where citizens historically posted satirical poems and commentary. Finding these statues and reading their stories is a playful way to engage with things in Rome beyond the ordinary.
8. The Orange Garden on Aventine Hill
A peaceful garden filled with fragrant orange trees, it's a quiet oasis amid Rome's hustle and one of the prettiest hidden things in Rome.
9. The Basilica of San Clemente's Underground Layers
Explore this unique church to see layers of history literally built one on top of another — a multi-level time capsule among the architectural things in Rome.
10. The Roman Ghetto's Artisanal Jewish Bakery
Taste traditional Roman-Jewish treats like carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes) and pizza ebraica at an authentic bakery — one of the most flavorful and culturally rich things in Rome to experience.
Final Thoughts: Rome Is Full of Unexpected Things Waiting to Be Discovered
When you explore these quirky and lesser-known things in Rome, you unlock a city beyond the postcards — full of stories, surprises, and secrets that make every visit uniquely memorable.
