Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana
★4.6(5,151 reviews)Museum
🕑 1 to 2 hours👶 Best for ages 8 and up. Older children and teens with an interest in architecture, history, or photography will appreciate the building's unique style and historical significance. Younger children may enjoy the exterior's dramatic appearance but might find indoor exhibitions less engaging unless they're particularly curious.🧡 Saved by 41 families
About
The Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, often called the 'Square Colosseum,' is a striking example of Fascist-era architecture that fascinates children with its unique geometric design and 216 identical arched windows. This iconic building offers guided tours and exhibitions perfect for families interested in Rome's modern history and impressive architecture. Kids enjoy counting the arches and marveling at the building's massive scale and symmetrical beauty.
Highlights
- ✓The stunning exterior with 216 perfectly aligned arches arranged in six rows of nine
- ✓Photo opportunities with one of Rome's most recognizable modern monuments
- ✓Rotating art and cultural exhibitions inside the palace
- ✓Learning about Italy's Fascist-era architecture and EUR's history as a planned district
- ✓Exploring the surrounding EUR neighborhood with wide boulevards and unique 1930s-1940s architecture
Pro Tips
- 1.Take the Metro Line B to EUR Palasport or EUR Fermi stations, both within walking distance, as parking in EUR can be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
- 2.Note that Sunday is closed, so plan your visit during the week or on Saturday. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than afternoons.
- 3.The building is currently home to Fendi's headquarters, so some areas may not be accessible. Check ahead for current exhibition schedules and tour availability.
- 4.Bring a camera as the exterior provides incredible photo opportunities. Challenge kids to photograph different angles of the repeating arches for a fun architectural scavenger hunt.
- 5.English-speaking visitors should book guided tours in advance and confirm English availability, as Italian is the primary language for most tours.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities. Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather for exploring the EUR district's outdoor spaces surrounding the palace.
What to Know
Entry fees vary depending on exhibitions. The EUR district is easily accessible by Rome's Metro system. Limited food options exist within the building itself, so plan meals before or after your visit in the surrounding neighborhood.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round except Sundays. Summer months (July and August) can be extremely hot with limited shade around the building's exterior, so bring water and sun protection. Check for special exhibitions during major holidays or cultural events.
Nearby Eats
Pizzeria Ostiense (about 10 minutes away) offers family-friendly pizza and pasta in a casual setting. For a quick bite, head to the EUR shopping area where you'll find cafes and gelaterias that welcome families.
More Activities Near EUR (Esposizione Universale Roma)
Activity
Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana
The Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, nicknamed the 'Square Colosseum,' is a striking example of Fascist-era architecture that looks like something from a futuristic movie set. Kids will be amazed by the building's 216 identical arches and perfectly symmetrical design, making it an excellent spot for introducing children to architectural concepts while exploring Rome's modern district away from the crowded historic center.
Playground
Playground Area near Viale Europa
Free❤️6
This well-kept neighborhood playground in Rome's EUR district offers a welcome break from museum-hopping with classic play equipment including slides, swings, and climbing structures. The shaded areas make it particularly appealing for younger children during warm Mediterranean days, and the free admission gives budget-conscious families a perfect spot to let kids burn energy while parents rest on nearby benches.
Sports
Palazzo dello Sport
$
This large multifunctional arena in Rome's EUR district hosts a diverse lineup of family-friendly events throughout the year, from exciting sporting competitions to concerts and special shows. The modern venue offers excellent sightlines and facilities, making it a comfortable choice for families looking to catch a basketball game, ice show, or other entertaining events during their Rome visit.
Park
Laghetto dell'EUR
Free
Laghetto dell'EUR offers families a peaceful escape in the heart of Rome's modernist EUR district, where kids can burn energy with pedal boat adventures on the scenic artificial lake while parents enjoy the tree-lined walking paths. The combination of water activities, open green spaces for picnics, and paved paths perfect for bikes and scooters makes this a wonderful low-key outdoor destination between museum visits.