Monte dei Cocci
Monte Testaccio, also known by the nickname “monte dei cocci” is an old open-air landfill.
A huge accumulation of waste material, a spectacular ruin.
It is an entire 54-meter high hill with a circumference of about 1 kilometer formed by “testae“, from which the toponym “Testaccio” derives. The meaning is “shards”, fragments of 53 million amphorae used for the transportation of oil.
These artifacts were unloaded in what used to be the nearby Emporium port on the Tiber. The amphorae that transported this asset were not reusable due to the rapid alteration of oil residues.
The solution for their disposal was quick, cheap and surprisingly hygienic. The strategy used for their stacking involved the use of lime, a material that countered the development of bacteria caused by the decomposition of the oil and at the same time allowed the stable and cohesive stratification of the amphorae.
During the Middle Ages the “monte dei cocci” was a meeting point for the celebration of popular events: the ludi maximi of the Roman Carnival. Also during the middle ages, its religious function was consolidated with the “Game of the Passion”, the sacred representation of the Via Crucis during Holy Week which left the symbol that still stands on the top of the hill, the iron cross.
If you are travelling to Rome with your family or travelling alone, and would like to discover something that hardly is found on your guide, spend some quality time in the company of locals in a friendly environment, why not enjoy a travel experience with us: small group up to 8 people top, accompanied walking tour by locals, real Italian food experience and some insight on the authentic Italian way of life.
