Piazza di San Cosimato: Everything You Need to Know

Piazza di San Cosimato: A Lively Spot in Trastevere

If you are visiting Rome, you should not miss the chance to explore Trastevere, one of the most ancient and charming districts of the city. Trastevere is full of points of interest, such as Piazza Trilussa, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, and the Basilica of Santa Cecilia. But there is another place that deserves your attention: Piazza di San Cosimato.

The History of Piazza di San Cosimato

Piazza di San Cosimato takes its name from the church that stands on one side of the square. The church was originally part of a Benedictine monastery, dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian, two brothers who were martyred in Syria in the 4th century. The monastery was founded in the 10th century and later entrusted to the Poor Clares, an order of nuns founded by Saint Francis of Assisi.

The church has a simple façade with a 12th-century portico made of reused materials. Inside, you can admire a fresco of the Madonna and Child by Antonio del Massaro, also known as Il Pastura, a 15th-century painter. The church also has a small Romanesque bell tower.

The monastery had two cloisters: the first one, dating back to the 10th century, was originally on two levels, but the upper arches were replaced by rooms in the 15th century; the second one, built in the same century, has pillars and a covered well in the center. In 1891, the convent was seized by the municipality and turned into a hospice. In 1960, it became part of the new Regina Margherita hospital.

The Market of Piazza di San Cosimato

One of the main attractions of Piazza di San Cosimato is its market, which has been operating since the beginning of the 20th century. Here you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, meat, fish, bread, and other local products. Many of the vendors are descendants of the original stallholders, who have been passing on their traditions and skills for generations.

The market is open from Monday to Saturday, from 7 am to 2 pm. It is a great place to experience the authentic atmosphere of Trastevere, where time seems to have stopped. You can also enjoy some street food or a coffee at one of the bars around the square.

The Events of Piazza di San Cosimato

Piazza di San Cosimato is not only a place for shopping and sightseeing, but also for entertainment and culture. During the summer, the square hosts an open-air cinema festival, where you can watch classic and contemporary movies for free. You can also buy popcorn for one euro and sit on chairs or on the ground.

The cinema festival is part of a larger event called "Estate Romana" (Roman Summer), which organizes concerts, shows, exhibitions, and workshops all over the city from June to September. Piazza di San Cosimato also hosts other events throughout the year, such as flea markets, book fairs, and festivals.

Conclusion

Piazza di San Cosimato is a hidden gem in Trastevere that offers history, culture, and fun. It is a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local life and enjoy the beauty of Rome. If you are looking for a place to stay near Piazza di San Cosimato, you can check out Locanda San Cosimato, a cozy hotel that overlooks the square and offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.