In the San Paolo neighborhood, near the tourist apartments Little Blue and Little Red, precisely at Via Alessandro Severo 48, you can spot a remarkable structure: the former Atac depot. It was built back in 1928 and was originally called Deposito del Littorio since it was constructed during the Fascist era.
At first, the Atac depot was used to host the electric trams that went towards the Basilica of Saint Paul and reached the surrounding districts. For a long time, until the 1950s, the depot continued to serve as a shelter and parking place for trams, until these vehicles were gradually replaced by buses. Up until the 2000s, it remained a key workshop and bus depot until—due to the needs of Rome’s public transport company—it was closed.
After about twenty years of closure, the former Atac depot is reopening to start a new life. Recently, a project was approved by the Municipality of Rome to give new purpose to this space, which has great potential and is located in such a lively and dynamic district as San Paolo. The plan is to transform the former depot into a MULTIFUNCTIONAL CIVIC HUB, which will also include a museum of public transport with a historical archive and a training center for professions related to mobility. It’s an ambitious project that we hope will attract many people to visit this area.
The Farmer’s Market
Meanwhile, the old depot has been offering services and social opportunities to the neighborhood through important commercial and cultural events. The first of these is the food market, the Farmer’s Market, which takes place in the mornings every Saturday and Sunday. In addition to the covered Ostiense market on Via Corinto, this excellent weekend-only market is also worth mentioning. Divided into two areas—food products and fruit and vegetable section—it offers high-quality goods sold directly by producers from the Lazio region. The range of products is wide: besides fruit and vegetables, you’ll find dairy products, cured meats, eggs, legumes, meats, and honey at the Farmer’s Market. Moreover, inside the venue, it’s possible to enjoy freshly prepared meals at reasonable prices, and there’s also a play area for children.
The San Paolo District Fairs
At regular intervals, San Paolo District also becomes a venue for major fairs. One of the most popular is dedicated to vintage lovers: the Vintage Market, a fair featuring artisans and shops specializing in second-hand clothing. Founded in 2008, it has grown into a vibrant event attended by many curious visitors and enthusiasts. It’s definitely worth visiting, as you can find unique clothes and accessories, special furniture, paintings, jewelry, eyewear, and handmade items that are hard to come by. The Vintage Market has become a reference point for those who choose to shop more consciously, embracing creativity and a new way of experiencing commerce. Buying second-hand clothes helps the planet’s sustainability and also provides a chance to meet people, look around, and talk—a way to socialize in a space very different from a shopping mall.
