Pyramid of Cestius
piramide Cestia · Roma Capitale
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation2:28
Welcome to one of the most striking and unexpected sights in the Eternal City: the Pyramid of Cestius. As we stand here in the Testaccio (Tes-TAH-cho) district, near the ancient gate of Porta San Paolo (POR-ta San PA-o-lo), your…
Listen in the app2The Exterior: Marble and the Clock of Mortality1:51
Let us begin by examining the skin of this great monument. The exterior is clad in slabs of white Luni (LOO-nee) marble, better known today as Carrara (Kar-RAH-rah) marble. …
Listen in the app3The Aurelian Integration: Walls of Defense1:32
Observe how the pyramid is physically connected to the heavy, brown brick structures nearby. These are the Aurelian Walls, built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Aurelian to protect a Rome that was no longer invincible. …
Listen in the app4Entering the Tomb: The Descent into the Chamber1:29
If you are fortunate enough to visit on a day when the interior is open, you will step through a narrow opening into a world of silence. The entrance leads to a single burial chamber located deep within the masonry. …
Listen in the app5The Interior Frescoes: Winged Victories and Roman Elegance1:31
Cast your eyes toward the walls and ceiling of the burial chamber. Despite the damage from tomb raiders, the remnants of the original Roman frescoes are breathtaking. …
Listen in the app6The Shadow of the Pyramid: The Protestant Cemetery1:25
Now, walk around to the side of the pyramid that borders the Cimitero Acattolico (Chee-mee-TEH-ro A-kat-TO-lee-ko), or the Non-Catholic Cemetery. The pyramid provides a magnificent backdrop to one of Rome's most peaceful and…
Listen in the app7The Cat Sanctuary: Modern Guardians of the Tomb1:27
As you explore the grounds near the base of the pyramid, you may notice some furry residents lounging on the ancient stones. This area is home to one of Rome's most famous cat sanctuaries, the Gatti della Piramide (GAT-tee…
Listen in the app8Closing1:30
As we conclude our tour of the Pyramid of Cestius, take one last look at this anomalous peak in the Roman skyline. It remains a powerful symbol of how Rome was never a closed system, but a culture that constantly absorbed,…
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What is Pyramid of Cestius?
Pyramid of Cestius is a place in Roma Capitale with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Roma Capitale |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Total length | 13 min 13 s in all |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 41.8764, 12.4808 |
| Last updated |
