Rome's former slaughterhouse becomes a hub for alternative culture

Rome's Mattatoio, once a bustling slaughterhouse, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a dynamic center for alternative culture. Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, the imposing industrial architecture, which until 1975 saw cattle herded and processed, now serves as a venue for markets, concerts, debates, and culinary experiences.

The Testaccio district itself is steeped in history, deriving its name from 'testae', shards of Roman amphorae that once transported goods like olive oil and wine. These broken pieces were discarded, forming a large mound around which the neighborhood eventually developed. The area offers a glimpse into ancient Rome, complementing the more famous sites like the Colosseum and Imperial Forums.

Near the Mattatoio, the Piramide metro station stands testament to Roman fascination with Egypt, named after the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, a tomb built in the first century BCE. Adjacent to this ancient monument lies a serene garden overlooking the pyramid, which serves as the final resting place for notable figures, including the English Romantic poet John Keats. His colleague Percy Bysshe Shelley and Goethe's son are also buried there.

While the Non-Catholic Cemetery is primarily for non-Italians and non-Catholics, exceptions are made for individuals who have made significant contributions to culture and politics. Among the notable Italians interred there are crime novelist Andrea Camilleri, former President Giorgio Napolitano, and communist intellectual Antonio Gramsci. A short walk from the cemetery leads back to the Mattatoio, which the municipality aims to develop further into a comprehensive art center, though currently, various independent associations and groups are active within its spaces.