Join me for exclusive visits to Monte Testaccio, an archeological site that is generally closed to the public. Composed of fragments of tens of millions of ancient terracotta amphorae, the site is a fascinating trash heap which testifies to the Roman appetite for imported oils during the Empire. We will begin our visit with some background of Testaccio, an area that was a hub of commercial activity in antiquity and during the industrial revolution and still clings to those traditions as the area becomes ever more gentrified. We will explore the concepts of ancient commerce and modern industrialization as we hike up to the top of Monte Testaccio for views over the old slaughterhouse, the Testaccio district and Ostiense’s industrial ruins.

Dates: May 26, 9:30am; June 9, 9:30am; July 8, 11:00am; July 19, 4:30pm.

Meeting point: Bar il Seme e La Foglia, Via Galvani 18 (Map).

Duration: The guided tour will last approximately 1.5 hours.

NB: Booking is obligatory and fees include a guided tour and admission fees. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera!