Jewish Museum of Rome (Museo Ebraico di Roma)

The Basics

Located in the lower level of the Great Synagogue of Rome (Tempio Maggiore di Roma)—built in the former Jewish ghetto (Ghetto di Roma) and inaugurated in 1904—the Jewish Museum of Rome (Museo Ebraico di Roma) opened in 1960. A gallery displays marble fragments from the 16th to the 19th centuries that record elements of Roman Jewish life, from the purchase of cemetery plots to the wills of wealthy families. The highlight is the 3D virtual tour through the Jewish ghetto, which re-creates the original streets and buildings from historic prints and artworks.

Rome’s former Jewish ghetto is one of the most storied corners of the city, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culture and history of one of Europe’s oldest Jewish communities. Small-group Jewish ghetto tours generally include a guided tour of the main synagogue, the smaller Spanish Synagogue (Tempio Spagnolo), and the Jewish Museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Jewish Museum is steps from the charming backstreets, markets, and restaurants of the former Jewish ghetto and, across the river, Trastevere.

• Rome Jewish ghetto tours require a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.

• The Jewish history museum is accessible to wheelchair users.

• Photography is not allowed inside the museum.

How to Get There

The Jewish Museum is located in the Great Synagogue complex on Lungotevere de' Cenci, just across the Tiber River from Rome’s historic center. Take bus 40 from the Termini train station or walk across Ponte Garibaldi.

When to Get There

As part of the synagogue complex, the Jewish Museum of Rome is closed on Jewish holidays, so be sure to check the calendar before planning a visit.

The Jewish Ghetto

Rome’s historic Jewish ghetto is now one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city, with tiny alleys and squares lined with kosher restaurants, bakeries, and shops.

Ways to explore

Rome’s Jewish Quarter offers a glimpse into the culture of one of Europe’s oldest Jewish communities. Small-group tours of the area typically include a guided visit of the Jewish Museum, the Great Synagogue, and the smaller Spanish Synagogue, and many tie in the neighborhood’s architectural highlights, such as the Portico of Octavia and Turtle Fountain. Meanwhile, Jewish Quarter food tours are a great way to fuel up on fried artichokes and other local specialties before visiting the Jewish Museum on your own. Tickets for the museum also include entry to the Great Synagogue.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring your official ID for a security check at the entrance.

What to wear

If you plan to visit the synagogue after the museum, wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. Men are also required to cover their heads.

Not allowed

Photography, bulky bags, non-service animals

Amenities

Restrooms, audio guides

Address

The Jewish Museum of Rome is located in the Jewish Quarter, set between Piazza Venezia and the Tiber River. It’s a short walk from major attractions such as the Roman Forum, Theater of Marcellus, and Capitoline Museums, but you can also get there by car or public transportation.

Driving

While self-navigating around Rome isn’t recommended for visitors due to traffic and limited parking, you can easily use a taxi or rideshare to get to the Jewish Museum of Rome.

Public transportation

The museum is close to the Arenula/Cairoli tram stop (accessible via line 8 from Trastevere), and several buses stop nearby along the Tiber River and at Largo di Torre Argentina.

Best times to visit

Because the museum sees its biggest crowds at midday, visit shortly after opening or before closing for a quieter experience.

Best days to visit

Plan your visit between Sunday and Thursday, as the museum closes early on Fridays and isn’t open on Saturdays.

Best months to visit

The museum closes for several Jewish holidays in the fall, so aim to visit in the summer as a break from the Roman heat or in the winter or spring.

Special events

Occasionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions; head to its website’s official events calendar to see what’s on during your visit.