Lazio

Rome is the city with the highest number of fountains in the world: approximately 2,000. In the streets, squares and courtyards, it is almost obvious to find at least one fountain, often a monumental one. Unfortunately, however, not all of them have flowing water and among the active ones, not all offer drinking water.

Alchemy enthusiasts will love to visit the Porta Magica in Piazza Vittorio. Also known as Porta Ermetica or Porta dei Cieli, it is said to have been the entrance to the workshop of Massimiliano Palombara, Marquis of Pietraforte. Built in the second half of the 16th century, it is located in the marquis' residence on the Esquiline Hill and has been in the garden in Piazza Vittorio since 1873. Full of esoteric symbols, including the Seal of Solomon, it also features numerous epigraphs. Very special is the threshold, which bears a palindromic inscription: “Si sedes non is” when read from left to right means “If you sit, you don’t proceed” but when it is read from right to left, it says the opposite: “If you don’t sit, you proceed”.

The 7.7 km of the Mount Terminillo planetary trail make it the longest in Europe and during the approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes of walking, it is possible to discover the Sun and the 9 planets of the solar system thanks to small thematic areas. In addition to the planets, this trail is unique for its breathtaking views.