Knights of Malta Keyhole Aventine Hill Rome
Rome's enchanting secret: peer through a keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica and a glimpse of three countries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Knights of Malta Keyhole Aventine Hill Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rome's enchanting secret: peer through a keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica and a glimpse of three countries.
"A magical mix of architecture, history, and perspective through a tiny keyhole."
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Lines
Arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
☀️ Mind the Afternoon Sun
Late afternoon sun can make photography tricky; morning light is often better.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Keyhole View
Villa del Priorato di Malta
Peer through a small keyhole for a perfectly framed, breathtaking view of St. Peter's Basilica.
Three Countries in One Glimpse
Aventine Hill
Experience the unique optical illusion of seeing Italy, Malta, and Vatican City simultaneously.
Aventine Hill Gardens
Villa del Priorato di Malta
Enjoy the serene beauty of the manicured gardens that lead your eye to the distant basilica.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best View
Capture the Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Lines
Arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. +1
☀️ Mind the Afternoon Sun
Late afternoon sun can make photography tricky; morning light is often better.
ignore Google Maps
If Google says it's closed, don't worry! It likely refers to the building, not the keyhole view.
📸 Capture the Moment
While photos are a must, take time to simply soak in the incredible view.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Lines
Arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. +1
☀️ Mind the Afternoon Sun
Late afternoon sun can make photography tricky; morning light is often better.
ignore Google Maps
If Google says it's closed, don't worry! It likely refers to the building, not the keyhole view.
📸 Capture the Moment
While photos are a must, take time to simply soak in the incredible view.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walk Up
The walk up Aventine Hill offers lovely views and is part of the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical and unique view of St. Peter's Basilica through the Knights of Malta Keyhole, often calling it a hidden gem. The 'three countries' illusion is a highlight, though some note that afternoon sun can make photography challenging. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid queues.
"Amazing view of St. Peter’s Basilica dome. Photos don’t do it justice so you just have to soak in the view. We went at 6:30AM and there was a few other people around. Ignore the “Closed” on Google, it must be referring to the building itself."
Cassandra Lee
"Great view of St. Peter’s basilica. Late afternoon can be tricky if the sun is out. Your camera has a hard time focusing so be mindful of the sun also. The difference in the pictures are morning and afternoon."
Chuck Marks
"I have waited in the sun without any shades for at least a good 60 minutes or more, so I would suggest you to come as early as possible, to avoid the crowd."
Nikolett Ábel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The keyhole is located on Aventine Hill. You can reach it by walking from the Circus Maximus metro station (about a 15-20 minute walk) or by taking a bus. Many visitors enjoy the scenic walk up the hill.
Aventine Hill is one of Rome's seven hills. While there's an incline, it's generally accessible by foot and offers beautiful surroundings. 
Many visitors find walking up from Circus Maximus provides a pleasant introduction to the area. Alternatively, buses can get you closer to the top.
Driving directly to the keyhole is not recommended due to limited parking and ZTL (limited traffic zones) in central Rome. Public transport or walking is preferred.
From the Circus Maximus metro, expect a 15-25 minute walk uphill. The walk itself is part of the charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no ticket required to view the keyhole. It's a free attraction, though you might encounter a queue to take your turn.
While Google Maps might indicate it's closed, this usually refers to the building itself. The keyhole view is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when it's light out.
The Aventine Keyhole is free to access. The experience is about peering through a gate, not entering a paid attraction.
The keyhole is part of the property of the Priory of the Knights of Malta, but access to the building and gardens is typically restricted. The view is from the gate.
Wait times can vary. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can significantly reduce your wait.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The keyhole offers a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome in Vatican City, often described as a magical and unique perspective.
Yes, it's a popular legend and optical illusion! You see Italy from where you stand, the Vatican City through the keyhole, and the Knights of Malta's property is considered its own sovereign territory.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light. Be aware that direct afternoon sun can make focusing difficult.
Position your camera or phone directly in front of the keyhole. Patience is key, especially if there's a queue.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Remember to be respectful of others waiting their turn.
ℹ️ 💡 General Tips
It's famous for its unique, perfectly aligned view of St. Peter's Basilica through a small keyhole, offering a glimpse of three countries at once.
Absolutely! It's a charming, free, and unique experience that offers a different perspective on Rome's iconic landmarks. +1
Aventine Hill is also home to the beautiful Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) with panoramic city views and the Basilica di Sant'Anselmo.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be walking up Aventine Hill. Dress appropriately for the weather.
Yes, children can enjoy the novelty of looking through the keyhole and the 'three countries' illusion. The walk up the hill is also manageable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to spot St. Peter's Basilica and talk about the 'three countries' legend. The walk up Aventine Hill is also manageable for most children, and you can combine it with a visit to the nearby Orange Garden for more space to run around and enjoy city views.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Timing is crucial for the best light. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid harsh midday sun and potential glare. While the view is iconic, remember to also capture the charm of the Aventine Hill surroundings and the anticipation of the reveal.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Combine your visit with a leisurely stroll through Aventine Hill's gardens and enjoy the panoramic views. It's an ideal addition to a Rome itinerary for those seeking charming, less-crowded experiences away from the main tourist hubs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Keyhole Illusion
+1The illusion is further enhanced by the popular legend that looking through the keyhole allows you to see three countries at once: Italy (where you are standing), Vatican City (the basilica in the distance), and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta itself, which is an independent entity with extraterritorial status. This unique perspective makes it a must-see for many travelers seeking hidden gems in Rome.
+2While the view is the main draw, the experience is also about the journey. The walk up Aventine Hill provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering glimpses of charming streets and gardens. The keyhole itself is a testament to how simple elements can create profound and memorable experiences.
Navigating Aventine Hill and Its Surroundings
Once you reach the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, you'll find the distinctive green door of the Priory of the Knights of Malta. While the property itself has special status, the keyhole view is accessible from the outside. Be prepared for a potential queue, especially during peak hours, as visitors patiently wait their turn for a brief, magical glimpse.
Beyond the keyhole, Aventine Hill offers other points of interest. The Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) provides stunning vistas over Rome, and the nearby Basilica di Sant'Anselmo is a beautiful, less-visited church. Exploring these spots can make your visit to Aventine Hill a more comprehensive experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit