There is a strange Pyramid in the center of Rome, near the Acatholic Cemetery. The funereal monument was built in the 1st century BC on request by Gaius Cestius Epolo, a rich Roman praetor and member of a religious order, which organized holy banquets and games.
Thanks to the Roman conquest of Egypt in 30 BC, Gaius, as well as all members of the upper class, had the opportunity to know and appreciate the Egyptian culture.
Thanks to the Roman conquest of Egypt in 30 BC, Gaius, as well as all members of the upper class, had the opportunity to know and appreciate the Egyptian culture.
The Pyramid is about 36,40 meters tall and it is covered with white marble; according to the inscription on the East side, this work was completed in 330 days.
The small burial chamber is located inside the building and it is decorated with paintings, which represent nymphs, winged Victories and women offering votive gifts.
During the Middle Age someone desecrated the burial chamber, ruining the inner paintings and stealing the ashes urn.
In 271 AD the Pyramid of Cestius was incorporated in the City Walls, known as Aurelian Walls, and surrounded by urban buildings, which helped to preserve the construction.
In the 14th century many intellectuals, such as the Italian writer Francesco Petrarca, named the Pyramid as Remus' tomb, brother of the legendary founder of Rome, Romulus. In the following centuries it has been tried to convert the Pyramid into a church, designed by Borromini, and also into a lightning rod placement.
Just a little curiosity! Near the Pyramid there is one of the most ancient Roman cattery called "I gatti della Piramide" (English: The Pyramid Cats), managed by an association which allows to adopt abandoned cats.
During the Middle Age someone desecrated the burial chamber, ruining the inner paintings and stealing the ashes urn.
In 271 AD the Pyramid of Cestius was incorporated in the City Walls, known as Aurelian Walls, and surrounded by urban buildings, which helped to preserve the construction.
In the 14th century many intellectuals, such as the Italian writer Francesco Petrarca, named the Pyramid as Remus' tomb, brother of the legendary founder of Rome, Romulus. In the following centuries it has been tried to convert the Pyramid into a church, designed by Borromini, and also into a lightning rod placement.
Just a little curiosity! Near the Pyramid there is one of the most ancient Roman cattery called "I gatti della Piramide" (English: The Pyramid Cats), managed by an association which allows to adopt abandoned cats.
Pyramid Opening hours
The tomb can only be accessed by special permission
Reservation numbers: (+39) 06 39967700, (+39) 06 5743193
The tomb can only be accessed by special permission
Reservation numbers: (+39) 06 39967700, (+39) 06 5743193
Cattery Opening hours
Open 7 days a week: 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm
Open 7 days a week: 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm
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| Pyramid of Cestius |
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| Burial Chamber |
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| Pyramid cat |
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| Other guests of Pyramid Cattery |
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