Roman Ghetto

The Roman Ghetto is located between the island in the River Tiber and the Theatre of Marcellus, and today it is home to Rome’s synagogue. This historic district was established in 1555 when Pope Paul IV issued a Papal Bull that required all Jews in Rome to live within its borders. At the time, the area was considered undesirable, as it suffered from frequent flooding by the nearby river.

A Walled Community with a Difficult Past

When the Ghetto was created, it was enclosed by walls and gates. These gates were only open during the day, which confined the Jewish residents to the area at night. Life was challenging for those living inside the Ghetto, as the community faced many restrictions and hardships over the centuries.

Change and Transformation After 1870

The conditions changed dramatically with the end of the Papal States in 1870. The rule requiring Jews to live within the Ghetto ended, and eighteen years later, the physical walls surrounding the area were removed. Much of the original Ghetto was demolished during this period, but traces of its history remain.

Remnants of History and Modern Life

Today, visitors can still find evidence of the past in the Roman Ghetto. Some buildings preserve pieces of ancient Roman ruins in their walls, offering a glimpse into the layered history of the neighborhood. The area is also known for its Jewish restaurants, which serve traditional dishes and keep the spirit of the community alive in the heart of Rome.

Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Ghetto