Via del Moro is a particularly charming street.
It is also one of my preferred shortcuts through Trastevere because I can check out the book display at The Almost Corner Bookshop, and then ogle (eat) all the pizza at La Renella.
But one of the true gems of the street is Polvere di Tempo.
The small shop is nearly obscured by hanging ivy, but this only adds to the appeal of the treasures that lay just inside.
Polvere di Tempo is a unique artisan shop run by Adrien Rodriguez who originally studied as an architect in Argentina.
Peeking through the window, you will see an eclectic mix of leather-bound journals, maps and globes of all types. Rather than antiques long forgotten by modern Romans, these treasures are all handcrafted by Adrien in his small workshop within the shop.
From this quiet and quant corner of Rome, Adrien creates hourglasses of sand and water (which is fitting as “Polvere di Tempo” means “dusts of time”).
He also indulges his passion for sundials and other curios that might be more commonly seen in past centuries.
Even if you don’t have space in your luggage for a handcrafted hourglass, there are smaller keepsakes waiting to be scooped up.
When I found something here for my father recently, Adrien wrapped it up nicely and even personalized it with a wax seal.
I am thinking I need to add Polvere di Tempo to my list of favorite stores to find unique Rome souvenirs, because there is surely no place like it anywhere else.
Have you been to visit yet?
Polvere di Tempo
Via del Moro, 59
00153 Rome (Trastevere)
+39 06 5880704
I was searching for a place like this, but only found one near Campo dei Fiore. I wish I had read your post on this at that time. Of course, you did not publish it yet. I will save to my Pocket app for our next trip. At some point, you need to put all of this in a book. So many books Rome, but none that have your content.
Thanks so much, Greg! No book for now- but this will be in the Discover Rome app (a new section on shopping is coming soon) – and I hope you can visit the next time you are in Rome!
A wonderful place!
It is a hidden treasure indeed!
What is the name and variety of the ivy grown outside of the shop?
Sorry! I have no idea! Wish I had more of a green thumb
You have a great website! We had visited this wonderful store some years ago, I am happy it is still around. We will be visiting Rome on the 5 and 6th of January. do you think it will be open on either day. The 5th is sunday, and perhaps it might be closed, and the 6th is the Epiphany. Might you please inquire and let us know, we so want to return!
Thanks so much! Given the holidays, I am really not sure if it will be open. The owner does speak some English so it might be worth giving them a call that morning to confirm.
Do you happen to know if he can ship items ?
I am in the States .
I believe he can! He’s quite responsive so I would visit the store website and reach out.
Nice to see this exceptional little shop getting some well-deserved recognition. My home and office here in the States are both decorated with one-of-a-kind items from Povere di Tempo. Get off the tourist track and find this magical place!