Hotelrome.net Blog : A guide to news and events in Rome

  Our Blogger: Nic

Rome is so full of colourful ancient history that it becomes almost obligatory to forget  more recent events of important historical significance. But the Nazi German occupation of the capital towards the end of the Second World War is something that still stirs strong emotions among older Romans even today. And you can experience what is was like to live during the struggle for liberation at the Museo Della Liberazione in Rome.

The small museum, in Via Tasso, is the actual building that was used by the German Security Police (SIPO) to imprison members of the Italian Army and resistance. Many waited for their deaths here, and, in some ways, the museum is more of a temple to them and those that suffered at the hands of the ruthless occupiers. On the second floor the jail stands exactly the way the Germans left it when they eventually departed following allied liberation  (the occupation of Rome lasted from September 11 1943 to June 4 1944).

You can still see engravings left in two of the interrogation cells by prisoners – some prayers, some verses from Dante, some messages to their mothers. Apart from this very sad aspect, the museum is also full of original documents, photos and maps from the Roman resistance. This includes anti-Nazi propaganda where the Resistance spoke out in favour of the British forces (who would later help to liberate them).

There is also a special exhibition dedicated to Rome’s jews who were taken away to be killed by the Nazis, despite handing over a large proportion of gold to them beforehand in exchange for sparing their lives. This took place in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, near the River Tevere.

Getting to the museum

The museum can be easily reached from Hotel Des Artistes. Take the Metro A line from Termini to Manzoni. The museum is then just a five minute walk away.

So why not book your stay in Rome today with us and enjoy all the comfort of  a modern hotel in the centre of the eternal city.