Pyramid of Caius Cestius

The Pyramid of Cestius is a truly unique and fascinating landmark in Rome, a stunning blend of Roman ambition and Egyptian-inspired architecture. It's an unforgettable sight, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the ancient city walls. Recently, the pyramid became a symbol of modern resilience and hope in an inspiring way. Before the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, the monument was beautifully illuminated, not just with light, but with the stories of Ukrainians rebuilding their lives and homes. Seeing this ancient symbol of a past civilization used to highlight the strength and determination of a people in the present was incredibly moving. It was a powerful reminder of how history and current events can intersect to create moments of profound meaning. A must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the human spirit.

The Pyramid of Caius Cestius was a fascinating and unexpected discovery during our time in Rome—an ancient Egyptian-style pyramid tucked within the city walls that instantly captured our attention. Built around 18–12 BCE as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a Roman magistrate and member of the Septemviri Epulonum (a religious corporation), it stands over 120 feet tall and is made of brick-faced concrete covered with white Carrara marble. What makes it especially unique is that it was constructed during a time when Egyptomania swept through Rome following the conquest of Egypt, blending Roman and Egyptian architectural styles. The pyramid was later incorporated into the Aurelian Walls in the 3rd century, helping to preserve it for centuries. Inside, a small burial chamber still holds faded frescoes, though it's only occasionally open to the public. Visiting it felt like stepping into a little-known layer of Rome’s rich and eclectic history, and it’s definitely worth seeing for anyone who appreciates the city’s unexpected architectural gems.

It's really cool to see and surrounded by a beautiful garden. I loved reading the signs about the pyramid monument. It's definitely worth a visit. I loved visiting at sunset to get beautiful photos. The area is easy to navigate too with public transport, and one bus I took from there by accident led me past all the main sights of Rome l. It was awesome.

Great little pyramid in the heart of Rome. Looks much newer than it actually is, and the story behind it is fascinating. The last of seven pyramids in Rone that survives and is a reminder of the links between Rome and Egypt. Free to look at as there is no entry required.

Easily accessible by taking line B of the Metro to Piramide station. The pyramid is right at the exit. You can also see a large well preserved section of the 3rd century Aurelian walls, and the Saint Paul Gate (Porta San Paolo).

A couple notes: The best place to see the pyramid is from inside the Protestant Cemetery. They will tell you at the gate to the Protestant Cemetery that you're not allowed to take pictures inside it. Ignore that. They will also "require" that you give them a "donation" to get into the Protestant Cemetery. Do not ignore that. It's €5. Pay it. Back to the pyramid: go to the northeast end of the cemetery, through the portal into the little park area, and the views of the pyramid are much better than from the street. There are dates that they open the pyramid for visitors to go in, but it's only on certain days, and if you're not there that day, then you don't get in. But it's still really cool. So definitely go.

I visited it and didn't expect to be how it is. I was already 10 days in Rome and saw almost everything. So i decided for my last dey to rake a walk in the Testaccio neighborhood and didn't believe what i was going to miss in the city i thought I've seen everything. It was beautiful, quiet neighborhood, and the best part was the pyramid something you wouldn't expect in Rome.

Impressive pyramid for pictures - nothing else here except an historic city gate and walls. Across the road from the Pyramide metre station.