Architecture in Travestere by Thomas Riess

About "Architecture in Travestere"

by Thomas Riess

About the artwork

Trastevere (from the Latin trans Tiberim "beyond the Tiber") is the XIII Rione (neighbourhood) of Rome. It stretches from the southern bend of the Tiber to the Gianicolo hill on the right, western bank of the Tiber and is considered the most original and authentic neighbourhood in the city. The correct pronunciation of the name in Latin and Italian is on the second syllable: Trans Tíberim, Trastévere. Trastevere was one of the working-class neighbourhoods in ancient Rome. It was the neighbourhood of foreigners and marginalised groups. Initially, many Jews lived there, which was reflected in the fact that there were once ten synagogues here. Rome's first Christians also settled here. Some of the most important early Christian basilicas are located in Trastevere. Throughout history, Trastevere remained Rome's international neighbourhood. Immigrants came to this area because it was cheaper than the other neighbourhoods. Some also call Trastevere the village in the city. During the revolt against the papacy in Rome in 1849, Trastevere was the stronghold of the rebels, something that the long-established residents are still proud of today. The bust of Giuditta Tavani Arquati, who was shot by papal troops, and the plaque commemorating the rebels at Via della Lungaretta 97, for example, are evidence of this. Piazza Giuditta Tavani Arquati also commemorates the "heroine of Trastevere".