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Castro Pretorio is a district with a rich history, situated in the heart of Rome. Its name derives from the ancient "Castrum Praetorium," a military camp where the Praetorian Guard, responsible for protecting the emperor in Roman times, was stationed. Over the centuries, the neighborhood has evolved, transforming into an important urban center characterized by its late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. Today, it is known for its proximity to historical monuments such as the famous Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Roma and the nearby Roma Termini train station, one of the city’s main transportation hubs.
Living in Castro Pretorio
Living in Castro Pretorio means comfort, especially for students and young professionals. Its atmosphere makes it an ideal neighborhood for those seeking a complete urban experience, with quick access to universities like La Sapienza and various educational institutions. Moreover, despite its central location, Castro Pretorio offers a calm and safe environment, with residential areas well-connected by public transport. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle, with easy access to shops, restaurants, parks, and a wide range of services.
Public trasnport in Castro Pretorio
Castro Pretorio is excellently connected by an extensive public transportation network. It features the "Castro Pretorio" metro station, which is part of Line B of the Rome Metro, providing direct access to important points in the city such as the Colosseum and the EUR district. Additionally, the nearby Termini station offers connections to both Lines A and B of the metro, as well as high-speed trains and long-distance buses, facilitating access to any part of Rome and even other Italian cities. There are also numerous bus lines that cross the district, providing additional alternatives for easy travel around the city.
Metro: Rome has three metro lines, A, B and C. Although it is one of the smallest metro networks in Europe, it reaches all the points of interest in the city. To buy a metro ticket, you can do it at the metro stops themselves, at kiosks and tobacconists and, of course, for long stays in the city it is advisable to buy a pass. The schedule of this means of transport is from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM. In the case of weekends, the metro service extends its schedule until 1:30 in the morning.
Bus: there are more than 350 bus lines in the city of Rome, exactly 338 day lines and 22 night lines. However, Rome's bus has the bad reputation of being a very unpunctual means of transport, although it is gradually being modernised. As with the metro, bus tickets can be purchased at metro stops, kiosks or tobacconists.
Regional train: this is Rome's commuter train network, with three lines that go to Lido, Viterbo, and Giardinetti. As with other modes of transport, tickets can be purchased at metro stations, kiosks, and tobacconists. The service schedule is slightly shorter compared to other forms of transport, running from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, except for the Lido line, which typically operates later.
Tram: Rome is served by six tram lines. These lines run through less central areas, so it will be a very useful means of transport if your accommodation is in a more remote neighbourhood. The tram schedule is from 5:30 AM to 00:00. As with buses, it will seem that no one pays for their ticket, but you should already know that this is not the case. Remember to validate your ticket if you do not have a monthly pass.
Services in Castro Pretorio
Castro Pretorio is a neighborhood that offers a wide variety of services for its residents. From basic services to more specialized options, the neighborhood's inhabitants can find everything they need without having to travel far. The offerings include supermarkets and convenience stores, as well as gyms, banks, and administrative offices. This makes Castro Pretorio a highly functional and practical place to live, especially for those who value the convenience of having everything at hand. Additionally, the neighborhood has a solid infrastructure that facilitates access to health services, education, leisure, and well-being.
Here are some of the most notable services that Castro Pretorio offers:
Everyday shooping
Daily shopping in Castro Pretorio is easy and convenient thanks to the variety of available options. Among the most well-known supermarkets in the area are Coop, Carrefour Express, and Conad, which offer a wide range of products to meet residents' daily needs. For those who prefer a more traditional shopping experience, the Mercato Nomentano is an excellent choice, featuring fresh and local products. Additionally, the covered market in Piazza Alessandria is very popular among locals for its selection of fresh food, artisanal goods, and household items.
Health and wellness
The Castro Pretorio district is well-equipped with healthcare centers and hospitals that ensure the well-being of its residents. Among the most notable facilities is Policlínico Umberto I, one of the largest and most renowned hospitals in Rome, providing high-quality medical care.
Having fun in Castro Pretorio
What to do in Castro Pretorio?
Leisure in Castro Pretorio is varied and accessible. From the opportunity to visit nearby historical monuments and museums to enjoying a wide range of recreational and cultural activities, the neighborhood has something for everyone. Its proximity to the Galleria Borghese and the Museo Nazionale Romano allows residents to enjoy both permanent and temporary exhibitions without straying too far from home. Additionally, the area features cinemas, theaters, and art centers that offer a variety of cultural entertainment.
Eating out
Castro Pretorio is an excellent place to enjoy Roman cuisine. Among the most popular restaurants is Ristorante da Vincenzo, known for its traditional Roman dishes and cozy atmosphere. Authentic Italian pizza can also be enjoyed at Pizzeria L'Archetto, a classic in the neighborhood. For those who prefer more international options, there are several restaurants and cafés offering cuisines from different parts of the world, catering to diverse tastes.
Parks and green areas
Although it is a highly urbanized area, Castro Pretorio offers some green spaces where residents can enjoy a breath of fresh air. The Parco di Villa Torlonia is one of the closest and most popular parks, featuring lush areas perfect for relaxing or exercising. This park, in addition to being a green lung in the city, houses museums and recreational areas for all ages. There are also small public gardens nearby, ideal for peaceful strolls or outdoor activities.
Cultural activities
Castro Pretorio boasts an active cultural agenda throughout the year, with events at its main museums and cultural centers. The Museo Nazionale Romano, for example, houses significant collections of art and history, while the nearby Teatro dell'Opera di Roma offers a rich schedule of operas and ballets. Sports enthusiasts can find the Stadio Flaminio to be the perfect venue for enjoying sporting events.
Going out
For those who enjoy nightlife, Castro Pretorio offers several options. Goa Club, one of the most well-known nightclubs in Rome, is nearby and a popular spot for young people to dance until dawn. Additionally, there are many bars and pubs in the area, such as Freni e Frizioni, where residents can enjoy a good aperitif or a drink in the evening. The streets of the neighborhood come alive in the afternoon and evening, especially during the warmer months.
Castro Pretorio is a neighborhood that combines history, vitality, and a rich array of services, making it an ideal place to live and visit. Its youthful atmosphere, driven by the presence of students and professionals, creates a very pleasant and cosmopolitan vibe.