Garbatella is Rome's living proof that things don't always go according to plan. This Fascist-designed web of curved sidewalks and angular plazas was forced to convert to Communism in the 1970s. Garbatella’s residents responded to the totalitarian policies and now their freewheeling, free-thinking spirits are reflected in the neighbourhood's delightfully diverse food offerings and relaxed nightlife. Garbatella might not be the stringent utopia envisioned by its founders, but it remains one of Rome’s most intriguing neighbourhoods.
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The community says:
On the Map
Garbatella is within Ostiense and bordered by Portuense, San Paolo, Roma Centro, Testaccio, and Ripa
Infused With Community Spirit In Central Rome
Garbatella's crumbling facades and laundry-pinned clotheslines recall a Rome of the past.
The community in this neighbourhood has loved its plazas, piazzas, and comfortable cafes for generations.
Surprising angularity contrasts with smooth edges in Garbatella, and their curious lines remain a Roman oddity.
Garbatella's inconspicuous buildings often hide beloved trattorias and private courtyards within their walls.
When you find yourself inside one, you sit back and enjoy.
Similar to Garbatella's secret garden spaces, street art nestles itself into nooks throughout the neighbourhood.
Some of the art publicizes local opinion while other works reflect local support.
Garbatella residents display their support for their soccer team proudly upon the walls of their neighbourhood.
Garbatella's Culinary Culture
Trattorias typify Garbatella.
Its casual dining spots are revered for their simple cuisine and strict adherence to grandmotherly traditions.
In the mood for bucatini all'amatriciana?
Care for a plate of rigatoni alla carbonara?
Crave a serving of saltimbocca alla romana?
You'll encounter countless Italian specialities inside Garbatella's ristorantes.
Garbatella's Fresh Food Market
Food is foremost in Garbatella.
Fresh produce stalls line the sides of the neighbourhood's local market.
In Garbatella, raw ingredients become living canvases for culinary artists. To admire their work, you must eat.
Mangia, mangia.
Photography
Airbnb works with local photographers to capture the spirit of neighbourhoods all around the world. The photography on this page includes work by:
Thomas Toti
Thomas Toti is a photographer and director of photography. He has been burning film since he was 15 years old. A fascination for different cultures has led him to travel and this passion manifests itself in his work, where he applies a fresh approach to every shoot. He is intrigued by Rome and loved shooting for Airbnb as it allowed him to pay homage to both the city and its tourists.