Historically, one associates the Roman Ghetto with Jews.  In reality, the “Roman Ghetto” consists of five realities that have co-existed in close proximity to one another over time: the Ancient Ghetto, the Noble Ghetto, the Christian Ghetto, the Jewish Ghetto, and the recent Political Ghetto. We will cover one at a time, to fully understand this fascinating area…

One can enter the Ancient Ghetto off the area sacra d´Argentina, next to the Crypta Balbi, a ruined crypt and theater, now a museum. Or one can enter through the ancient ruins near Teatro Marcello, a stunning Roman monument today used as a backdrop for cultural events in the summer. The construction, begun by Caesar, was completed by Emperor Augustus as a theater for 20,000 spectators. It was named after Marcello (Marcellus), the son of the Emperor´s sister, Ottavia. Next to it are columns from an ancient temple to Apollo, built in 32 B.C.

Just as the Teatro Marcello honors Marcellus, the nearby Portico d’Ottavia honors Ottavia, both monuments bringing glory and fame to the family. Originally two temples (with 300 columns,) the Portico was built by Quintus Metellus in 149 B.C. in honor of the gods, Jupiter and June. It was later rebuilt by Augustus in 23 B.C. and restored by Septimus Severus and Caracalla.

The Teatro Marcello was converted into a palace in the 16^th century. Inside: a maze of private apartments.

* These entries are based on a tour given by Antonella Mantovani, a teacher at the Rome based language school Italiaidea. (see www.italiaidea.com).