The chapels bear unsettling messages like: “As you are, we once were. Skeletons are arranged as works of art in several small chapels here, including everything from altars made of human bones, to chandeliers made with human bones, to full skeletons in the robes of a monk resting on a bed of bones (noticing a theme here?). In the 17th century, the Capuchin Crypt was slowly built with the skeletons of the friars that died at this monastery. However, fair warning–it’s not for everyone. The Capuchin Crypt is truly one of the most unique, unforgettable sites in Rome–and as one of the least-toured crypts (technically, it’s an ossuary) in the city, it is the very definition of exploring Rome off the beaten path. Want an extra-special experience at the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj?īook yourself a night of opera in the throne room! Whether you want to tour the impressive art gallery (the collection is impressive and so uncrowded as compared to the more popular art museums in Rome), the family’s impressive apartments, or both, definitely consider adding the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj to your list of reasons to get off the beaten path in Rome. Once you’re inside, however, the palace is absolutely dazzling. Set just steps away from the famous Piazza Venezia sits this palace, whose exterior–while impressive–fades into the scenery among all the beautiful buildings in Rome. Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is definitely near the top of our personal list of the best-hidden gems in Rome–and like the Galleria Sciarra, it’s hidden in plain sight! Hoping to discover Rome off the beaten path? Here’s where to look. Once you leave the path of the Colosseum – Trevi Fountain – Spanish Steps – Pantheon – Piazza Navona – Vatican Museums (not that there’s anything wrong with those places–we adore each and every one, and there’s a 0% chance we’ll ever visit Rome without stopping by at least a couple of them), it can be fairly simple to find a quiet corner of Rome to have (mostly) to yourself–and this guide will help you do it.

Two thousand years is a long time to be an interesting, vibrant city, and a lifetime wouldn’t be long enough to discover all the treasures that Rome has to offer. The bottom line is that while Rome is one of the most touristed cities in the world, it’s also one of the most densely packed with fascinating buildings, museums, neighborhoods, and pieces of history. You’d be surprised, but no–while every last inch of the Eternal City has certainly been “discovered” by some tourist at some time, if you’re looking for hidden gems in Rome, they’re surprisingly easy to find! Rome off the beaten path: an oxymoron, perhaps?

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