Things to do

Torre di Rebibbia

Via Egidio Galbani, 00156 Roma RM

Rating: 5.0 ★ (2 ratings)

Details

Torre di Rebibbia is a fascinating medieval structure, a square-plan tower dating back to 1125. Standing at approximately nine metres high, it is crafted from regular tufelli and selcetti in its lower section, built upon ancient concrete foundations. This historical monument once played a strategic role in guarding the Aniene river and a vital ancient road connecting the Via Nomentana and Via Tiburtina. It is found in the Rebibbia urban zone, on Rome's north-eastern edge, an area characterised by family homes and a somewhat rural atmosphere.

Visitors can appreciate the tower's robust medieval construction and its enduring presence as a testament to Rome's strategic past. Its architectural details, with a mix of tufelli and selcetti, hint at centuries of history embedded within its walls. While not a traditional museum with extensive exhibits, the Torre di Rebibbia offers a tangible glimpse into defensive architecture from the 12th century, inviting contemplation of the landscape it once overlooked.

This site particularly appeals to history enthusiasts and those keen to explore Rome beyond its most frequented landmarks. It is well suited for individuals seeking a quiet, authentic encounter with a less-explored facet of Roman heritage, offering a reflective experience away from bustling crowds. The overall appeal lies in its historical significance and the opportunity to connect with a tangible piece of the city's medieval defensive network.

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Comments

Mark Landers

7 Apr 2026

5.0 ★

The name Rebibbia immediately conjures up sad images of a large prison on the outskirts of Rome. Perhaps not everyone knows that both the prison and the surrounding neighborhood take their name from a medieval tower that still stands on a hill overlooking the Aniene River, to the right of the Nomentana, near Via Benigni. Although it appears truncated, the building is well preserved. It rests on ancient Roman concrete structures. The lower section is made of flint, the upper section of regular tuff, with windows enlarged in the modern period and several rows of holes for wooden scaffolding. In the Middle Ages, the place was called Aguzano and is first mentioned in a Papal Bull of 962 as the property of the Monastery of San Silvestro in Capite. The estate and "torricella" were transferred to the church of Santa Maria del Popolo in 1487, and after the Sack of Rome in 1527, they passed from the Monastery of San Sisto to a certain Francesco Salomone. The current name began to appear after 1570, the year in which the tower and adjoining farmhouse were restored by Cardinal Scipione Rebiba, who was also president of the Roman Inquisition.

The Rebibbia Tower served as a lookout and defense, due to its strategic position guarding the Aniene Valley and the road connecting the Nomentana and Tiburtina rivers.

This building is not accessible to the public as it is not open to tourists, tours, or visits of any kind.

Mario Ierardi

16 Aug 2019