Jessica Pino is ISA’s Senior Site Specialist for Florence and Rome, Italy. Contact Jessica with questions about summer programs in Rome and Florence.
There’s nothing better than strolling through your neighborhood and stumbling across hidden treasures most people in the city seem to overlook. And, there’s no better city to stroll through getting to know your new neighborhood than Rome, the Eternal City itself. Discover the secrets that history has carved into the world around where you will be taking classes, the American University of Rome (AUR).
The AUR and ISA office sit atop the Gianicolo Hill, in the Monteverde neighborhood, which offers some of the best views of the city. At the highest point of the hill, sits Piazza Garibaldi which is dedicated to the Italian patriot Giuseppe Garibaldi who fought for Italy’s independence.
Every day at noon students can hear a cannon fire from the Gianicolo – a tradition dating back to 1847 which signified the time of day when the surrounding bell towers would start ringing.
Monteverde, meaning “green mountain”, offers students a break from the hustle and bustle of the tourist center, yet allows them access to some of the best kept secrets of Rome. Monteverde is home to the largest public park, Villa Doria Pamphili, where students can enjoy a picnic, go for a jog, or visit one of the museums. This residential location allows students a full immersion feel with easy access to the best historical sites of the city.
