The Enigmatic "Passetto del Biscione"
Unveiling a secret passage and exploring the origins of a timeless Roman saying
Another curiosity of Rome that few know and that I want to tell you about is the Passetto del Biscione. Tucked away in the vibrant Campo de' Fiori district, this hidden passage is a charming slice of history that many tourists miss during their whirlwind tours of the Eternal City.
The Passetto del Biscione, or "Little Passage of the Snake," gets its name from the serpent-like heraldic symbol of the noble Orsini family, who once owned the land. This small, covered walkway connects Via del Biscione to Piazza del Paradiso, providing a quaint shortcut through a tangle of narrow streets and historical buildings.
What makes the Passetto del Biscione so fascinating is its blend of history and local lore. Walking through it, you can almost feel the whispers of Rome's past, imagining the secrets and stories that these ancient walls could tell. The passage is lined with rustic arches and charming, if slightly worn, stonework that give it an atmosphere of old-world mystery.
Now, let's talk about the saying "Cercare Maria per Roma." This Italian phrase translates to "Searching for Maria all over Rome" and is used to describe a futile or endless search for something or someone elusive. The origins of this expression are a bit hazy, but it's believed to stem from the sheer commonness of the name Maria in Italy, making it akin to finding a needle in a haystack. It's a delightful piece of Roman vernacular that perfectly captures the exasperation and humor of a seemingly impossible quest. Well, this saying seems also actually connected to the image of Maria found in the Passetto!
If you want to visit the Passetto del Biscione, it's relatively easy to find. Starting from the famous Campo de' Fiori, head towards the south-east corner of the square onto Via del Biscione. The passage itself is quite unassuming, so keep an eye out for the small archway that marks its entrance. The nearest major landmarks are Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, both just a short walk away.
Reaching this area is straightforward. If you're taking public transport, the closest bus stops are those around Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, serviced by several lines including the 46, 62, 64, and 87. Alternatively, if you're arriving from further afield, the tram stop at Argentina is also within walking distance. Once you're in the vicinity, the best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to soak up the unique atmosphere of Rome's narrow streets and hidden corners.
So next time you find yourself wandering through Rome, take a detour through the Passetto del Biscione. It's these lesser-known spots that truly capture the city's timeless charm and rich tapestry of history!