A Guide To Rome’s EUR Neighborhood

The unique district in the South of Rome where ancient meets modern.

The EUR district is definitely not what first comes to mind when one thinks of Rome. Its monumental, modernist architecture and grand avenues stand in stark contrast to cozy, intimate Rome of Trastevere or Monti. Full of symbolism, the district is definitely interesting, worth visiting, and for those who dug deeper into its history, even slightly disturbing.

History of EUR

In the heyday of Mussolini and the Fascist regime, the leader wanted to create a new site for ‘modern Rome’ from which his new Roman Empire would prosper. He chose a southern suburb of the Eternal City for its proximity to the seaport in Ostia. Rome was awarded the honor of hosting the 1942 World Fair (which never took place beacuse of the war), so district is named after the Universal Exhibition – Esposizione Universale Roma, or EUR for short.

Marcello Piacentini was nominated as master architect of the area in the late 1920s and he developed plans for permanent sites throughout the area as well as temporary pavilions designed especially for the fair. All designs were created in accordance with the Italian style of Rationalist Architecture, which combines the classical aesthetic of Ancient Rome with a form of Modernism.

The result is similar to what one might find when looking at fascist architecture in Germany or at Social Realism in the countries of the former Soviet Union. To add to the general symbolism of Old Rome – New Rome, the main building material of the district was the travertine stone–the same material from which the Colosseum was built.

What to see in EUR

The most dramatic landmark is the unmissable Palazzo della Civiltà del Lavoro, better known as Squared Colosseum (Colosseo Quadrato). A perfect quadrilateral shape, located on a vast plaza, has an authoritarian and eerie quality. The building pays homage to its Roman ancestor with a series of arches, repeated 216 times across its four identical facades. At the top of the building, an inscription reads: “A people of poets, of artists, of heroes, of saints, of thinkers, of scientists, of navigators, of migrants.” Today, it houses the headquarters of Fendi.

The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul rises at the highest point of EUR and stands as a prime example of modern architecture in Rome. With a Greek cross plan, it features a distinctive hemispherical dome measuring 32 meters in diameter, the city’s fourth-highest after the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Basilica di San Giovanni. Visible from various parts of the city, it stands alongside the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana as one of the district’s prominent architectural landmarks.

An uncommon feature in the rest of Rome, EUR is characterized by wide avenues and a grid-like street system. On the opposite side of one of those avenues, facing the Palazzo della Civiltà, lies the Palazzo dei Congressi. A monumental, neoclassical conference center, it is open to the public and hosts a vast array of events. 

Due to the outbreak of the Second World War, the development of the EUR area was halted. It was picked up again in 1955, with fresh ideas on how to integrate the neighborhood back into central Rome and to wash the fascist stigma. New buildings were constructed with the 1960 Olympics in mind. One of these sites, the Palazzo dello Sport, is a circular, domed stadium that holds up to 12,000 people. It is a popular venue known for concerts and live music events.

Behind the Palazzo lies EUR’s renowned artificial lake and park, known as Laghetto dell’Eur. The park boasts stunning waterfalls and fountains. Spring is the ideal time to visit, as the “Passeggiata del Giappone”, or Japanese Walk, is adorned with cherry blossoms. On weekends, the park buzzes with activity as locals indulge in picnics, jogging, and even canoeing and paddle boarding on the artificial lake. Visitors can also enjoy coffee or drinks at one of the cafes overlooking the lake. The Laghetto dell’Eur often hosts events and markets, such as This is Wonderland, an immersive light experience held during the summer.

Another interesting landmark of the district that break away from the fascist-era symbolism is the La Nuvola – Roma Convention Center. Unveiled in 2016 and designed by architect Massimiliano Fuksas, it was acclaimed as a beautiful example of modern architecture and a combination of eco-friendly materials and innovative technological solutions. Like the Palazzo dei Congressi, La Nuvola hosts a variety of events and conferences.

These days EUR is known as a business district, with the main headquarters of banks, large institutions and public sector organizations based there. EUR has also been the cinematic backdrop for many directors, both Italian and international. A few scenes of James Bond “Spectre” had been filmed on the site of the Museum of the Roman Civilization. Many buildings were featured in the films of Federico Fellini like “81/2” or “Boccaccio ‘70”. However, the most iconic example remains Michelangelo Antonioni’s 1962 black and white film “L’Eclisse”. The vastness and almost metaphysical feeling of the area perfectly reflects Monica Vitti’s character’s mindset. When wandering through the endless colonnades and boulevards, it is easy to feel transported to a completely different city.

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The Planetarium located within the Museo della Civiltà Romana, one of the world’s oldest, has recently undergone restoration. It now offers immersive tours for visitors eager to explore the universe and uncover its mysteries.

Although the area now draws visitors for one of the great beacons of Western civilization – the mega shopping mall Euroma2 – EUR has many interesting places to discover. Imagine great nightclub venues, parks, and eateries- not to mention fantastic photography opportunities.

Best Bars and Clubs in EUR Neighborhood

La Barcheria

Indulge in an aperitivo on the water at La Barcheria. This charming bar situated on the lake offers the perfect setting to enjoy a refreshing cocktail accompanied by snacks or platters.

Room 26

Room 26 is one of the standout venues in EUR, located at the Cristoforo Colombo obelisk. It’s one of Rome’s busiest clubs, attracting international artists and DJs.

EXE

An exclusive nightclub boasting a recently renovated venue, it’s the perfect choice for hosting parties and live events. Exe is also an excellent restaurant offering à la carte dining or buffet options.

ALLEUR

This concept bar offers delicious cuisine and cocktails. You can sit outdoors among cacti, and enjoy the cozy ambiance indoors as well.

Le Terrazze – Palazzo dei Congressi

This is the summer version of Room 26. Found on the top of the beautiful Palazzo dei Congressi, this venue can easily host up to 2000 people a night. It serves as a creative space for musical performances, events, cinema, theater, and art exhibitions.

EUR Social Park

This is a popular summer hangout in EUR, a venue nestled in a park, serving draft beer and bites. Experience live DJs, and various other events.

Best Restaurants in EUR Neighborhood

Lievito

In this establishment opened by Francesco Arnesano, you’ll find exceptional pizza al taglio and bread made with stone-ground flour. Additionally, there’s a variety of pastries and fried foods.

Bakery House

Indulge in American-style baked goods and try a true American breakfast with pancakes and brewed coffee. Don’t miss out on brunch during the weekends!

Il Bistrot 4.5

Whether it’s for a coffee, lunch break, aperitivo, romantic dinner, or gathering with friends, Bistrot 4.5 is the perfect spot. Its chic yet informal ambiance sets the stage for excellent, creative dishes.

Il Fungo Quattordicesimo Piano

On the fourteenth floor of Il Fungo dell’Eur, or the mushroom, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the EUR neighborhood and beyond, along with unforgettable dishes!

Acqua by Lexus

Aqua By Lexus is a magical venue where you can indulge in an unforgettable gastronomic experience, specializing in high-quality fish dishes.

Héco

Héco is a gourmet restaurant and pizzeria located in the heart of EUR. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it offers well-crafted cocktails, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere.

EUR Museums

Museum of Roman Civilization
Piazza Giovanni Agnelli 10
museociviltaromana.it

Museum of Civilization
Piazza Guglielmo Marconi 14
museocivilta.cultura.gov.it

Museo Storico della Comunicazione
Viale America 201
portalecultura.mise.gov.it/

Rome Planetarium
Piazza Giovanni Agnelli 10
planetarioroma.it/it

La Vaccheria
Via Giovanni l’Eltore 35
turismoroma.it

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EUR Attractions

Euroma 2
Via Cristoforo Colombo, corner of Viale dell’Oceano Pacifico
euroma2.it

Massive, three floor shopping mall. Opened in 2008, but the design evokes the decorative baroque, with a glass domed atrium.

Luneur Park
Via delle Tre Fontane 100
luneurpark.it

An amusement park with roller-coaster and water slides.

Live Music at EUR

Palazzo dello Sport
Piazzale Pier Luigi Nervi 1
palazzodellosportroma.it

Huge auditorium for live music, events and sports. Plus a lovely terrace overlooking the artificial lake.

Atlantico
Viale dell’Oceano Atlantico 271 d
instagram.com/atlanticoliveofficial

Live music venue, covering a large array of styles, national and international acts. Special party nights and events also.

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