Located in the heart of the historic centre, Colonna may be small, but it played a major role in Rome’s narrative. During the Roman Republic years, it was chosen as one of 12 administrative divisions, known as rioni. The neighbourhood is anchored by the monumental Piazza Colonna, which has served as a public space since Antiquity. The imposing marble Column of Marcus Aurelius sits in the centre of the piazza, topped by a bronze, somewhat age ravished 16th century statue of Saint Paul.
Thanks to its rich past, Colonna is peppered with sights and attractions that throwback to Rome’s ancient past. Highlights include a quartet of churches, as well as multiple palaces and other grand buildings like the Galleria Alberto Sordi, Almo Collegio Capranica and Palazzo Chigi.
Located in Muncipo I, Colonna is within easy walking distance of most major city attractions. The Pantheon is just minutes away and the Colosseum is a 20-minute stroll, with countless churches, cafes, galleries and historic sights to explore in-between. For those arriving by public transport, Colonna is well-serviced by the local bus network.
Today, Rome is made up of 22 rione divisions, with Colonna being the third most important. The remaining modern rioni are scattered across Muncipo I, with each issued with its own contemporary coat of arms. For Colonna, its crest is a silver column representing the Column of Marcus Aurelius laid over a red background.