The Eur District Rome, or Esposizione Universale Roma, is a fascinating area of the city, distinct from the ancient historical center. Conceived in the 1930s, its architecture offers a striking contrast, showcasing rationalist design and monumental structures. Among the notable landmarks in this district is the Marconi Obelisk, a towering monument that immediately captures attention along Via Cristoforo Colombo.
The Imposing Marconi Obelisk
Dominating the landscape at 45 meters high, the Marconi Obelisk stands as a tribute to Guglielmo Marconi, the brilliant Italian inventor of the radio and Nobel Prize laureate in Physics. Designed by Arturo Dazzi, this monument, though part of the original 1930s plan for the EUR district Rome, was finalized in 1959. Clad in Carrara marble slates adorned with detailed high reliefs, the obelisk is a powerful symbol of innovation and progress, fittingly located on the major artery, Via Cristoforo Colombo. It’s worth noting the area’s street names, many honoring Italian explorers and inventors, and celebrating concepts like Technology, Agriculture, Humanism, Industry, and Art, reflecting the forward-thinking ethos of the EUR district Rome.
Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul is another significant landmark within the EUR district Rome. Construction began in 1939, but was interrupted by World War II, during which the site suffered bombing and was even a site of conflict in 1943. Finally consecrated in 1955, the basilica showcases a Greek cross floor plan and is crowned by an impressive dome. This dome, measuring 32 meters in diameter, is one of the largest in Rome, contributing to the basilica’s grandeur and making it a key religious and architectural point of interest in the EUR district Rome.
Rome Convention Center – The Iconic “Cloud”
For enthusiasts of contemporary architecture, the Rome Convention Center, known as Fuksas’ “Cloud,” is a must-see in the EUR district Rome. Completed in 2014, this modern complex, designed by architect Massimiliano Fuksas, is characterized by its striking glass structure and the suspended “cloud” within. This cloud houses an auditorium capable of accommodating 1,800 people. Awarded the Best Building Site Prize by the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2012, the “Cloud” is not only a functional expo center and hotel complex but also a symbol of innovative, environmentally conscious design within the EUR district Rome.
Museums of the EUR District
The EUR district Rome is also a cultural hub, hosting a variety of museums. These include the Museo dell’Alto Medioevo (The Early Middle Ages Museum), the Museo delle Arti e Tradizioni Popolari (The Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions), the Museo Preistorico Etnografico L. Pigorini (The Pigorini Prehistoric Ethnographic Museum), and the Museo della Civiltà Romana (The Museum of Roman Civilization). These institutions offer rich insights into different facets of history, art, and culture, adding depth to the visitor experience in the EUR district Rome.
Palazzo dello Sport: A Legacy of the 1960 Olympics
Finally, the Palazzo dello Sport, also known as PALAEUR, stands as a testament to Rome’s hosting of the 1960 Olympic Games. Situated atop one of the southern hills of the EUR district Rome, this sports hall is an impressive structure capable of holding up to 20,000 people. Beyond sporting events, the Palazzo dello Sport is a versatile venue used for concerts, large gatherings, and conferences, making it a vibrant part of the EUR district Rome’s social and cultural life.
In conclusion, the EUR district Rome offers a unique urban experience, blending monumental architecture with cultural and recreational attractions. From the Marconi Obelisk to the modern Cloud, and the array of museums and the historic Sports Palace, EUR is a district that provides a compelling contrast to the ancient heart of Rome and is well worth exploring.
