Quartiere Coppedè – Rome’s Unexpected Neighborhood

In the center of Rome, there is a charming building around nearly every cobblestoned corner.

The palazzi sit so sure of themselves, and even the old tenement buildings take on a weathered look of antiquity to my new world eyes.

Rome has no shortage of architectural wonders, but one of my favorites is the most unexpected – Quartiere Coppedè.

Coppede Rome

“Quartiere” simply means neighborhood, and the Coppedè area is distinct from all others in the city.

Located outside of the center, Coppedè sits near Viale Regina Margherita alongside the upscale Parioli in the Trieste neighborhood.

Frog fountain Rome

Lovers of Art Nouveau will find Rome’s best examples in this small neighborhood. But there is also a dash of Greek influence, some Baroque touches, a bit of Gothic inspiration and a few throwbacks to Medieval design.

While the large scale buildings are gorgeous, the area is also filled with whimsical details such as this fountain of frogs.

Frog Fountain Coppede

All in all, there are about 40 structures in the Coppedè neighborhood, all designed by architect Gino Coppedè between 1913 and his death in 1927.

Coppede architecture

The fontana delle rane (fountain of the frogs) is at the center of the tiny quartiere in Piazza Mincio.

Rome's Coppede neighborhood is a great stop off the beaten path

The entire nieghbhood lies between Piazza Buenos Aires and Via Tagliamento – so it is quite easy to reach by either tram 3 or tram 19, both of which have stops at Piazza Buenos Aires.

Unique Rome Architecture in Coppede

You will know you have arrived when you spot the outdoor hanging chandelier, another detail dreamed up by Coppedè himself.

Coppede Rome

With such a mishmash of design, it can be hard to know where to focus first, but take your time because exploring the architecture is the whole point.

There are no cafes or restaurants to speak of – Quartiere Coppedè is simply for exploring. Start at the main piazza and then branch out slowly, taking in all of the details.

Gorgeous detailed architecture in Rome's small Coppede quarter

Like many of Rome’s lovely unexpected corners, visiting Coppedè does require a small trip outside of the center. However, the quick trip is worth it for a look at such a unique neighborhood in a city famous for its structures.


Exploring Coppede, Rome's off the beaten path architectural gem

Quartiere Coppedè

Piazza Mincio
Rome, Italy (Trieste)

9 thoughts on “Quartiere Coppedè – Rome’s Unexpected Neighborhood

  1. Pingback: Rome: Spectacular Sights & Hidden Gems

  2. Pingback: Rome: Spectacular Sights & Hidden Gems

  3. Colleen says:

    We just saw this a few days ago! It was so different and charming. And absolutely no tourists! We just walked about 3 km to get there from our hotel. Just to get away from the crowds and see something totally unique was worth it!

    • Natalie says:

      Completely agree that sometimes you need to escape the crowds and this is the perfect place to do it! Glad to hear you sought it out!

  4. Greg Speck says:

    Grazie mille. Once again you have put us where we want to be in Rome. Two years ago we visited serval places including the parrucchiere that my wife loved. Coppedè is beautiful. I posted some photos my my blog, and gave credit to you and your blog.

  5. Tanya Singer says:

    Hi Natalie, I am so happy to see you have written about the Coppede. It is truly a hidden gem in Rome. My ex husband was from this area and I spent several years living in the neighborhood . I saw that you did not include any cafes etc, so I wanted to suggest a few:

    Have a lemoncocco at “Lemoncocco” Piazza Buenos Aires. Only one of two places in Rome to enjoy this refreshing drink. Great on a hot day.

    Grab pastry, pizza or takeaway food at “La Madia” Via Sebino 2

    Have a pastry and coffee with an old school vibe at “Pasticceria Artigianale” Via Tagliamento 84

    Make a special occasion meal at “Il Gargliano.” An upscale Sardinian restaurant specialising in seafood. The food is outstanding.

    I really enjoy your blog and am looking forward to trying many of the places you suggest when I return to Rome in March. Thanks for all of the great and well written recommendations!

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