Aventine Hill, Rome, Italy - Villa del Priorato di Malta, the historic seat of the Grand Priory of Rome of the Knights of Malta
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Aventine Hill

4.7
·628 reviews·Rome, Italy

Discover Rome's hidden gem on Aventine Hill, famous for its magical keyhole view of St. Peter's Dome and serene gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
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Aventine Hill, Rome, Italy - Villa del Priorato di Malta, the historic seat of the Grand Priory of Rome of the Knights of Malta

Aventine Hill

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Rome's hidden gem on Aventine Hill, famous for its magical keyhole view of St. Peter's Dome and serene gardens.

4.7
(628 reviews)

"Peer through a secret keyhole for a view that'll blow your mind!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue

Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience .

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill

It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Knights of Malta Keyhole

The Knights of Malta Keyhole

Villa del Priorato di Malta

Peer through this secret keyhole for a perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome, spanning three countries!

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)

Aventine Hill

A tranquil garden offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, especially stunning at sunset.

Basilica di Santa Sabina

Basilica di Santa Sabina

Aventine Hill

One of Rome's oldest churches, boasting beautiful ancient doors and a serene atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at the Aventine Keyhole

The famous Aventine Keyhole offers a magical view, but expect queues, especially during peak hours. Consider visiting early morning or late evening for a more serene experience. Many travelers suggest going at night for a truly magical atmosphere.Reddit

Aventine Hill: More Than Just a Keyhole

While the Knights of Malta Keyhole is a major draw, Aventine Hill itself is a peaceful escape with stunning gardens and panoramic city views. Don't miss the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) for a beautiful sunset vista.Instagram

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical light
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, city lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Also known as the Knights of Malta Keyhole. The keyhole is located on the Aventine Hill, specifically at the entrance of the Villa del Priorato di Malta, which is the headquarters of the Sovereign Mil...
@britney.2.2.3
85.3K likes • 949.5K views

🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue

Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill

It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole.Reddit

A keyhole you MUST look through 😉 🔸There’s endless options when you want to enjoy a Roman panoramic view 🔸The Aventine hill gives us one of the most beautiful options.. 🔸Few steps away from Circo Mass...
@livevirtualguide
27.6K likes • 1.3M views
Not all treasures are out in the open 🤫✨ Peek through this keyhole on Aventine Hill for a view that’ll blow your mind 🤯 📲 FOLLOW @exclusiveaccommodationrome for relatable advice and BEST Rome tips 🗺 ...
exclusiveaccommodationrome
8 likes • 456 views

🌅 Sunset at Orange Garden

Enjoy stunning Rome views at sunset from Giardino degli Aranci on Aventine Hill.Instagram

✨ Keyhole View Magic

The keyhole view perfectly frames St. Peter's Dome, a unique sight.TikTok+1

Local Tips Before Visiting Rome, Italy 1. The Best View Isn’t the Spanish Steps For a free panoramic view, head to Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) on Aventine Hill. Sunset here feels like a pri...
lenuhbabes
0 likes • 600 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Keyhole Queue

Expect long lines for the Aventine Keyhole; visit early morning or late evening for a better experience.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up Aventine Hill

It's easily walkable from Circo Massimo; no need for a cab to reach the keyhole.Reddit

🌅 Sunset at Orange Garden

Enjoy stunning Rome views at sunset from Giardino degli Aranci on Aventine Hill.Instagram

✨ Keyhole View Magic

The keyhole view perfectly frames St. Peter's Dome, a unique sight.TikTok+1

📍 Find the Knights of Malta

The keyhole is at the entrance of Villa del Priorato di Malta, a Knights of Malta property.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(628 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Aventine Hill is celebrated for its unique, perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Dome through the Knights of Malta Keyhole, offering a magical and memorable experience. Visitors also rave about the tranquil beauty and stunning panoramic city views from the Giardino degli Aranci, especially at sunset. However, the popularity of the keyhole means long queues can be a significant drawback for some.

"Loved walking through the Aventine Hill area. Several interesting things to see, and without the hustle and bustle of some of other of rooms highlights. Recommend walking through this area."

Rob Silver

"One of the best views in Roman. You can get a great panoramic view across the city.

There is an old Roman church, which is plain but quite beautiful inside.

You can also wander around the orange garden this is beautifully scented with citrus.

It's also the site of the famous Avantine Keyhole. There was a long queue, but essentially you look through a tiny keyhole for an amazing view of St Peters.

The best hill in the city!"

Samantha Platt

"It is a hill that you reach after a bit of a tiring walk. The view was not what I expected but I still recommend it to those who want to see Rome from above. But I would like to say again that it is not as perfect as it is mentioned."

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What People Like

Magical keyhole view
Stunning sunset vistas
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Long queues at keyhole

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach the Aventine Keyhole is by taking the Metro B line to Circo Massimo station. From there, it's a pleasant walk up Aventine Hill. Many travelers suggest walking rather than taking a taxi.Reddit

Yes, Aventine Hill is accessible via public transport. The closest Metro station is Circo Massimo. Buses also serve the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Rome.

Driving to Aventine Hill is possible, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk to avoid parking hassles.

The best way to explore Aventine Hill is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the charming streets, gardens, and the unique keyhole view. Wear comfortable shoes!

Aventine Hill is relatively close to the Colosseum. It's about a 20-30 minute walk, or a short metro ride from the Colosseo station to Circo Massimo.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to look through the Aventine Keyhole. It's a free attraction, though you might encounter a queue of people waiting for their turn.Reddit

The keyhole itself is part of a gate and is accessible whenever the gate is open, typically during daylight hours. The surrounding gardens, like Giardino degli Aranci, also have specific opening and closing times.

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) is free to enter. It's a public park offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

While the keyhole is technically always there, the best times to visit are during daylight hours when you can clearly see the view. Many recommend visiting in the early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and a more magical experience.Reddit

Yes, many guided tours of Rome include a stop at Aventine Hill and the famous keyhole. This can be a convenient way to learn more about the history and significance of the area.

📸 📸 Photography

For the best photos through the keyhole, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The light is softer, and you'll have a clearer view of St. Peter's Dome without harsh shadows.TikTok

Yes, you can take photos inside the Giardino degli Aranci. It's a beautiful spot for capturing panoramic views of Rome, especially during sunset.Instagram

The keyhole itself provides the perfect, albeit small, frame. The magic is in the alignment, so no special angling is needed; just look straight through!

Tripods are generally allowed in public parks like Giardino degli Aranci, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or restrictions on the day of your visit, especially during busy periods.

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the keyhole view. The unique framing is the main attraction. For wider shots of Rome from the Orange Garden, a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens can be beneficial.

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The Aventine Keyhole is famous for offering a unique, perfectly framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome. Looking through it, you can see the dome aligned with the path leading to it, creating a magical perspective.TikTok+1

Aventine Hill is home to several beautiful sites, including the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) with its stunning city views, and the ancient Basilica di Santa Sabina. It's a peaceful area away from the city bustle.Instagram

You can see the keyhole and enjoy the Orange Garden in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit Santa Sabina and explore more leisurely, allow 2-3 hours.

Yes, Aventine Hill can be enjoyable for children, especially the Orange Garden for its open space and views. The keyhole itself is a fun 'secret' to discover. However, the queues for the keyhole might test younger children's patience.

The keyhole is located on the property of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. It offers a view through three countries: Italy, the Order of Malta's territory, and Vatican City, all aligned perfectly.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Aventine Hill offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The Aventine Keyhole is like a secret treasure hunt for kids, providing a fun 'wow' moment when they see the perfectly framed dome.TikTok The Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) is a great spot for children to run around and enjoy the open space and beautiful views of Rome. It’s a peaceful break from the more crowded attractions. Be prepared for potential queues at the keyhole, which might require some patience from younger visitors. Consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities directly on the hill are limited.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Aventine Hill is a fantastic free attraction for budget travelers. The Aventine Keyhole offers a unique visual experience without any cost.Reddit The Giardino degli Aranci also provides spectacular panoramic views of Rome for free, making it an excellent alternative to paid viewpoints.Instagram You can easily reach the hill via public transport (Metro B to Circo Massimo), saving on taxi fares. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Orange Garden, further reducing your expenses while soaking in the Roman atmosphere.

❤️ Couples

For a romantic outing, Aventine Hill is ideal. The Giardino degli Aranci is particularly enchanting at sunset, offering breathtaking city vistas that are perfect for couples.Instagram The Aventine Keyhole provides a whimsical and shared discovery, adding a touch of magic to your visit. The peaceful ambiance of the hill, away from the usual tourist crowds, allows for intimate moments and quiet conversation. Consider visiting in the early evening to experience the keyhole view as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Aventine Keyhole

The Aventine Keyhole, also known as the Knights of Malta Keyhole, is one of Rome's most charming and unique attractions. Located at the entrance of the Villa del Priorato di Malta, this unassuming keyhole offers a surprisingly perfect, framed view of St. Peter's Basilica dome in the distance.TikTok+1 The alignment is so precise that it creates a breathtaking visual experience, often described as magical, especially when viewed at dawn or dusk.TikTok Many visitors are surprised to learn that looking through this keyhole allows them to see across three different territories: Italy, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta's extraterritorial property, and Vatican City.TikTok

While the view is spectacular, be prepared for potential queues, as this hidden gem has become quite popular. Travelers often advise visiting during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, to avoid the longest waits and enjoy a more serene experience.Reddit The surrounding area on Aventine Hill is also worth exploring, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city center.

For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the golden hours when the light is soft and the dome is beautifully illuminated. While a smartphone camera is sufficient to capture the essence of the keyhole view, the surrounding gardens offer ample opportunities for wider, more expansive shots of the Roman skyline.

Exploring Aventine Hill's Tranquil Beauty

Aventine Hill (Aventino) is one of Rome's seven ancient hills and offers a serene escape with beautiful gardens and historical sites. The most popular spot, besides the keyhole, is the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden). This picturesque garden provides stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Tiber River and St. Peter's Basilica. It's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, particularly during sunset, offering a romantic and tranquil atmosphere.Instagram

Adjacent to the Orange Garden is the Basilica di Santa Sabina, one of the oldest churches in Rome, dating back to the 5th century. Its ancient wooden doors, featuring early Christian carvings, are a significant historical artifact. The basilica itself is a place of quiet contemplation, offering a glimpse into Rome's early Christian past. The entire hill is characterized by its peaceful ambiance, charming streets, and beautiful architecture, making it a delightful area to wander and discover.

When visiting Aventine Hill, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking uphill. The combination of the unique keyhole view, the breathtaking vistas from the Orange Garden, and the historical significance of Santa Sabina makes Aventine Hill a must-visit for a more relaxed and culturally rich Roman experience.

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