Pantheon & Aqua Virgo, Rome - Image 1
1 / 10

Pantheon and Aqua Virgo Rome

4.2
·49 reviews·Roma, Italy

Discover the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct still in use, feeding Rome's most famous fountains. A unique historical gem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pantheon & Aqua Virgo, Rome - Image 1

Pantheon and Aqua Virgo Rome

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct still in use, feeding Rome's most famous fountains. A unique historical gem.

4.2
(49 reviews)

"Unbelievable to see the architectural and engineering it took over 2000 years ago!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Access the Aqua Virgo

Enter the Rinascente Department Store on Via del Tritone and head to floor -1 for the aqueduct exhibit. :ticket:

🚶‍♂️ Peaceful Alternative

Skip the Colosseum crowds for a calm walk along ancient ruins. It's free and accessible! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Aqua Virgo Underground

Aqua Virgo Underground

Rinascente Department Store Basement

Witness an ancient Roman aqueduct, still functional after 2000 years, displayed with educational projections.

Trevi Fountain's Secret

Trevi Fountain's Secret

Trevi Fountain

See where the Aqua Virgo's water culminates, feeding one of Rome's most spectacular and iconic Baroque fountains.

Pantheon Fountain

Pantheon Fountain

Piazza della Rotonda

Appreciate the fountain in front of the Pantheon, a testament to the continuous flow of water from the ancient Aqua Virgo.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Aqua Virgo: A Hidden Gem

Discover the Aqua Virgo, an ancient Roman aqueduct still functioning today! Unlike crowded major sites, this offers a peaceful, educational experience. Access is surprisingly easy, often through a department store basement, making it a unique find for history buffs.

Pantheon's Water Source

The Aqua Virgo is not just an aqueduct; it's the lifeblood of Rome's iconic fountains, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon's own fountain. Understanding its history adds a new layer to your appreciation of these famous landmarks.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Atmospheric, less busy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The aqua virgo is a Roman aqueduct still in use today, after 2000 years #History #romanempire #engineering #aqueduct
@simplehistory_
44.5K likes • 681.5K views

🎯 Access the Aqua Virgo

Enter the Rinascente Department Store on Via del Tritone and head to floor -1 for the aqueduct exhibit. :ticket:

🚶‍♂️ Peaceful Alternative

Skip the Colosseum crowds for a calm walk along ancient ruins. It's free and accessible! :athletic_shoe:

Nació como un final de acueducto en el año 19 a. C.… y terminó siendo el escenario más famoso del cine italiano. La Fontana di Trevi no es solo una fuente: es la fusión de ingeniería romana, poder papal y arte barroco llevado al límite. En este video descubrirás cómo el Aqua Virgo de Agripa dio origen a un proyecto monumental que tardó siglos en completarse. Verás cómo el genio de Nicola Salvi, la...
@secretos.historia.top
23.5K likes • 434.2K views
This is linked to the Trevi fountain ⤵️ These ruins belong to the public Thermal Baths of Agrippa, inaugurated in 19BC. And how did Agrippa bring water to this ancient “SPA”? He built an aqueduct, called Aqua Virgo. You already know this aqueduct, and you know why? Because this aqueduct still functions today after more than 2000 years! This is the aqueduct that brings water to the most famous fou...
@livevirtualguide
1.9K likes • 50.6K views

💡 Educational Experience

Enjoy the informative light projections and plaques explaining the aqueduct's history. :iphone:

☕️ Rooftop Break

After your visit, grab a bite and enjoy Rome's views from the Rinascente rooftop food area. :coffee:

reddit.com

Virgo Aqueduct still working since 19 a.C.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Access the Aqua Virgo

Enter the Rinascente Department Store on Via del Tritone and head to floor -1 for the aqueduct exhibit. :ticket:

🚶‍♂️ Peaceful Alternative

Skip the Colosseum crowds for a calm walk along ancient ruins. It's free and accessible! :athletic_shoe:

💡 Educational Experience

Enjoy the informative light projections and plaques explaining the aqueduct's history. :iphone:

☕️ Rooftop Break

After your visit, grab a bite and enjoy Rome's views from the Rinascente rooftop food area. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(49 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Aqua Virgo's historical significance and the unique experience of seeing a functional ancient aqueduct within a modern department store. The educational displays and the connection to iconic fountains like the Trevi are highly praised, offering a peaceful and insightful alternative to more crowded attractions. Some find the location unexpected, but the overall experience is deemed educational and worthwhile.

"Enter through Rinascente Department Store (Via del Tritone, 61, 00187 Roma RM, Italy) and go down to floor -1. Cool informational light projection onto the aqueduct inside the basement of the store. Nice area to sit down and watch in the Jewel Market."

Eric Roosden

"I recommend walking the aquaduct over visiting the colleseeum. Visit the outside of the collesum and get your selfie but going inside is just a mosh pit. Aquaduct is a calm peaceful walk among ancient ruins without the crowd. Also this a free open public park easily accessible by metro."

David T

"Unbelievable to see the architectural and engineering it took over 2000 years ago"

Jr Hawkins

What People Like

Still functioning after 2000 years
Unique department store location
Educational displays and projections

What People Dislike

Unexpected location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most unique access point is through the Rinascente Department Store at Via del Tritone, 61. Take the elevator or stairs down to floor -1 to find the exhibit. It's easily reachable by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Reddit

Yes, the Aqua Virgo aqueduct historically supplied water to the area around the Pantheon, including its fountain. You can see the direct connection when visiting both sites. Reddit

While the main underground exhibit is within the department store, the aqueduct's water flows through various parts of Rome, feeding famous fountains. The experience is more about understanding its engineering and historical significance. TikTok

The Rinascente is centrally located. You can take a bus to stops like 'Tritone/Fontana di Trevi' or 'Barberini' and it's a short walk. The metro Line A station 'Barberini' is also a viable option. TikTok

Street parking in this central Rome area is very limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to reach the Rinascente. There are underground parking garages nearby, but they can be costly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Accessing the underground exhibit of the Aqua Virgo within the Rinascente Department Store is generally free. It's part of the store's amenities and historical displays. Reddit

The exhibit follows the opening hours of the Rinascente Department Store. It's typically open during regular business hours, but it's always best to check the store's official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Compared to major Roman attractions, the Aqua Virgo exhibit is usually much less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest. Reddit

The underground exhibit is only accessible during the department store's operating hours. However, you can see fountains fed by the Aqua Virgo, like the Trevi Fountain, beautifully illuminated at night. TikTok

While there aren't formal 'tours' in the traditional sense, the Rinascente store provides excellent informational displays and projections that educate visitors about the aqueduct's history and engineering. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You'll see a preserved section of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, illuminated with informative light projections and historical plaques detailing its construction and function. It's a fascinating glimpse into Roman engineering. Reddit

Yes, the visual displays and the sheer age of the aqueduct can be captivating for children. It offers a more manageable and less overwhelming historical experience than larger sites. TikTok

Most visitors spend around 30-45 minutes exploring the exhibit, reading the information, and watching the projections. It's a concise yet impactful visit. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted within the exhibit area, allowing you to capture the impressive ancient stonework and the modern light displays. Instagram

Besides the Aqua Virgo exhibit, you can explore the store's various levels of fashion and home goods. Don't miss the rooftop terrace for stunning panoramic views of Rome and a great dining experience. Reddit

🎫 ⛲ Fountains Fed by Aqua Virgo

The Aqua Virgo is famously the water source for the Trevi Fountain. It also supplies the fountain in Piazza Navona (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) and the fountain in front of the Pantheon. TikTokReddit

The Aqua Virgo aqueduct terminates near the Trevi Fountain, providing the water that cascades through its magnificent Baroque sculptures. It's a direct link between ancient engineering and a modern masterpiece. TikTok

The water from the Aqua Virgo is still used for public fountains, and while it's treated, it's generally not recommended to drink directly from them. However, the aqueduct's continuous flow is a marvel of Roman infrastructure. TikTok

Built in 19 BC by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, the Aqua Virgo is one of Rome's oldest aqueducts and remarkably, the only one still in operation today, a testament to Roman engineering prowess. TikTok+1

While the main accessible exhibit is in the Rinascente, remnants and visible channels of the Aqua Virgo can be found in various locations throughout Rome, often integrated into the urban landscape or visible in archaeological sites. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Aqua Virgo exhibit offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. Unlike overwhelming historical sites, the Rinascente's display is contained, educational, and visually interesting with its light projections. It's a great way to introduce children to Roman history without the stress of large crowds. Reddit

Pro-tip: Combine the visit with a trip to the Trevi Fountain (where the water ends up!) and the Pantheon's fountain. These iconic spots are sure to capture kids' imaginations, and knowing they're fed by an ancient aqueduct adds an extra layer of wonder. The Rinascente's rooftop also offers a fun break with food and views. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs & Engineering Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by ancient engineering, the Aqua Virgo is a must-see. It's one of the few Roman aqueducts still functioning after 2,000 years, a testament to the Romans' advanced understanding of hydraulics and construction. The exhibit in the Rinascente provides a clear, concise explanation of its design and importance. TikTok+1

Beyond the exhibit, tracing the aqueduct's path to the Trevi Fountain and other fountains it supplies offers a deeper appreciation for its scale and impact. Consider looking for other visible remnants or reading up on its history beforehand to maximize your understanding of this incredible feat of engineering. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

The Aqua Virgo exhibit is a fantastic, free activity that offers significant historical insight without the hefty price tag of major attractions. It's a peaceful escape from the usual tourist hustle, perfect for a solo traveler seeking a more contemplative experience. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding area, including the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, which are also free to admire from the outside. The Rinascente's rooftop offers affordable food options with incredible views, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy Rome. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of Aqua Virgo

The Aqua Virgo, or Vergine aqueduct, stands as a remarkable testament to Roman engineering, having been in continuous operation for over two millennia. Constructed in 19 BC by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, it was designed to bring fresh water to the Baths of Agrippa and the Campus Martius area of Rome. Its ingenious design utilized gravity to transport water over approximately 21 kilometers, a feat that required precise gradients and skilled construction techniques. The aqueduct's resilience is astounding; it has been maintained and restored throughout centuries, ensuring its vital function continues to this day. TikTok+1

What makes the Aqua Virgo particularly special is its direct connection to some of Rome's most iconic water features. It is the primary source of water for the world-famous Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece that draws millions of visitors annually. It also feeds the Pantheon's fountain and the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona, seamlessly blending ancient infrastructure with Renaissance and Baroque artistry. This continuous flow of water underscores the enduring legacy of Roman innovation and its impact on the city's aesthetic and daily life. TikTokReddit

For visitors, experiencing the Aqua Virgo offers a unique perspective on Rome's history. The accessible section within the Rinascente Department Store provides an intimate look at the ancient stonework, enhanced by modern educational displays. It's a chance to appreciate the sheer scale of Roman public works and understand how they shaped the city we see today, often in unexpected and accessible ways. Reddit

Experiencing the Aqua Virgo: Beyond the Department Store

While the most prominent and easily accessible exhibit of the Aqua Virgo is located in the basement of the Rinascente Department Store, its influence and presence extend throughout Rome. The aqueduct's water continues to flow, feeding several of the city's most beloved fountains. Visiting the Trevi Fountain allows you to witness the culmination of the Aqua Virgo's journey, where its waters create a spectacular display of Baroque artistry. TikTokReddit

Beyond the Trevi Fountain, the Aqua Virgo's legacy is visible in the Pantheon's Piazza della Rotonda, where a fountain stands before the ancient temple, a constant reminder of the aqueduct's historical role. Similarly, the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona, a masterpiece by Bernini, is also supplied by this ancient water source. These fountains are not just decorative; they are living monuments to Roman ingenuity and the enduring power of its infrastructure. Reddit

For those interested in a more in-depth exploration, seeking out other visible remnants of the Aqua Virgo can be a rewarding adventure. While not always as grand as the underground exhibit, spotting sections of the aqueduct integrated into the urban fabric or preserved in archaeological areas offers a deeper connection to Rome's ancient past. It transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a historical treasure hunt. TikTok