WWII Rome Tour: A Journey through History

From September 1943 to June 1944, Rome endured one of the darkest periods of its history under Nazi occupation. Following the armistice of 8 September 1943, the German army swiftly took control of the city, imposing a brutal regime led by Herbert Kappler. Civilians, partisans, and especially the Jewish community became the targets of violent repression.

On 16 October 1943, over 1,000 Roman Jews, including women and children, were deported to Auschwitz. Only 16 survived. Among them was Settimia Spizzichino, who later became a symbol of resilience and remembrance.

The city also bore witness to the suffering of political prisoners at Via Tasso and to the atrocity of the Fosse Ardeatine massacre, where 335 Italians were executed on 24 March 1944 in retaliation for a partisan attack. Rome was finally liberated on 4 June 1944, when the U.S. 5th Army entered the city.

Tour Itinerary

• EUR District – Explore the architecture of Fascist-era Rome, planned by Mussolini for the 1942 Universal Exposition.
• Fosse Ardeatine – Visit the national memorial where 335 civilians were massacred. Learn about SS officer Erich Priebke and the Nazi reprisal for the Via Rasella attack.
• Via Rasella – Site of the partisan ambush on 23 March 1944 that triggered the Ardeatine retaliation.
• Museum of the Historical Liberation of Rome (Via Tasso) – Former SS prison where resistance fighters were tortured. The museum includes preserved cells, personal letters, and testimonies.
• Jewish Ghetto – Learn about the deportation of Roman Jews and visit the streets where over 1,000 people were rounded up by the Nazis in October 1943.
• Palazzo Venezia – Headquarters of Mussolini’s government and site of his famous speeches. Includes an optional visit to his preserved office, if accessible.

Custom Rome WWII Tour 

The tour can be tailored to your personal interests, including specific themes such as the Jewish experience, the Resistance, or family history research. Whether you're a teacher, descendant of veterans, or a history enthusiast, I will create a meaningful and accurate itinerary based on archival sources and verified testimonies.

Tour Details

• Duration: Full-day private tour (6 hours)
• Start Time:  To be agreed
• Pick-Up: From hotel or agreed location
• Included: Guide, entrance tickets, transport 

Book Your Tour

Ready to explore the hidden history of wartime Rome? Whether for educational purposes, personal interest, or commemoration, I will guide you with passion and expertise. Let me help you connect with the stories that shaped the Eternal City during WWII.

Dr. Danila Bracaglia
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831
Website: www.montecassinotours.com