Rome also has its own Rambla, and it is located in Pietralata

In the heart of Municipio IV , Rome discovers a new urban soul: the Rambla di Pietralata , a large public space completely redeveloped that recalls, in name and spirit, the famous promenade of Barcelona. Extending over 17,000 square meters and dominated by greenery, this new area represents a model of sustainable mobility , social inclusion and environmental enhancement .

An urban regeneration project between greenery, culture and soft mobility

The new Rambla di Pietralata is the result of a complex urban redevelopment project included in the Urban Development Contract signed in 2015 between Roma Capitale and the MIT. With a total investment of 5 million euros, the project has transformed a marginal area into a point of reference for the neighborhood, promoting sociality, well-being and outdoor activities.

La Rambla is divided into two main areas:

• the Piazza : an urban space on multiple levels, paved and enriched with stairways, ramps, a fountain, pedestrian paths and green areas,
• the Cycle and Pedestrian Garden : a green corridor along via delle Cave di Pietralata, designed for gentle mobility and sporting activities.

An inclusive square for the community

Located to the west of the Pietralata Quarries , the new square represents the beating heart of the Rambla. Thanks to its accessible design and the variety of architectural elements – such as shelters, steps, fountains and tree-lined areas – this area encourages collective use and enhances the urban landscape, offering a modern and welcoming meeting place .

The cycle-pedestrian garden: sustainability and well-being

The second area of ​​the project is dedicated to sustainable mobility and free time . The cycle/pedestrian garden parallel to via delle Cave di Pietralata – up to the university campus and the new market on via Benedetti – integrates paths for bicycles and pedestrians, aromatic hedges, trees and equipped green areas. A true green lung of the capital designed for movement and relaxation.

A concrete example of environmental sustainability

Great attention was given to the environmental impact: the pavements, except those of the square and the sidewalks, were made of colored draining concrete and favor the absorption of water, while the irrigation system uses recirculating water collected in underground tanks. The objective is clear: to limit the consumption of resources and promote a balance between urban intervention and nature .

A journey through history: the archaeological finds that have emerged

During the works , archaeological finds of great historical value emerged, which made it necessary to modify the original project to ensure its protection. The excavations brought to light:

• walls and a well of a Roman rustic villa,
• 13 tombs from the late antique period.

Five eras in one site: a unique archaeological legacy

The archaeological investigations conducted in collaboration with the Superintendency have identified five distinct historical periods , which testify to the evolution of the area over time:

• Republican age: underground quarry with chambers for the extraction of tuff,
• Augustan age – full imperial age: construction and development of an agricultural villa with canals and well,
• late ancient period: necropolis with 13 pit tombs and particular burials,
• period IV: abandonment of the area,
• contemporary era: agricultural use and demolition of ancient structures.

The new Rambla di Pietralata, therefore, is not only a virtuous example of urban redevelopment , but also a bridge between past and future , where ancient history meets the modern needs of livability and sustainability.