Via dei Coronari

During the Middle Ages, travelers heading to St. Peter’s Basilica often took a route that led them along the Via dei Coronari. This street was a crucial part of the journey, as it provided access to the Tiber River crossing at Ponte St. Angelo. The path itself follows an even older road, the ancient Via Recta, which once stretched from today’s Piazza Colonna to the river.

The Origin of the Name

The name "Via dei Coronari" comes from the street’s historic connection to pilgrims. Vendors used to line the road, selling rosaries—also called “corone”—to the many people making their way to the holy sites. These sellers gave the street its distinctive name, lasting centuries.

Renaissance Influence and Historic Buildings

In the 15th century, Pope Sixtus IV started a wave of new construction along Via dei Coronari. He encouraged the building of private homes, many of which still stand today. Walking down the street, visitors can see houses that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, each carrying its own stories and unique architectural details.

Legends Along the Street

One of the more intriguing addresses on the street is house number 156/157. According to local legend, this building was once the home of Fiammetta, who was known as the mistress of Cesare Borgia, a famous figure from Renaissance Rome. The stories connected to these old houses add an extra layer of fascination to the street’s rich history.