The EUR (an acronym for Esposizione Universale di Roma, the Universal Exposition of Rome, planned for 1942 but never inaugurated due to the war) is one of the most striking urban landscapes in the Italian capital. Originally conceived by the Fascist regime to celebrate the continuity between ancient and modern Rome, the district was designed as a vast architectural showcase: grand perspectives, monumental squares, travertine buildings, and essential geometric forms that still impress with their scale and formal rigor. Work was halted during World War II, but in the postwar years, the area was completed and transformed into a business, residential, and congress hub. Among the most renowned contemporary buildings in EUR stands La Nuvola, a congress center that represents one of the most innovative examples of design and technology applied to architecture, completely reshaping the district’s skyline.
The “Square Colosseum”
Symbolic Architecture of the EUR
Among the most famous buildings is the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, nicknamed the “Square Colosseum,” with its elegant series of arches that reinterpret classical forms in a modern key. Nearby are the Palazzo dei Congressi, the Museum of Roman Civilization, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, the Central State Archives, and sports venues such as the Palazzo dello Sport / PalaEur. Many of these buildings frequently host events, fairs, film sets, and photo shoots.
Avenues, Parks, and the EUR Lake
One of EUR’s most distinctive features is its open spaces: wide boulevards and a large artificial lake — the EUR Lake — surrounded by gardens, walking paths, and play areas. The Giardino delle Cascate (Garden of the Waterfalls) features bridges and water displays that are especially scenic during the warmer months. Jogging, cycling, or picnicking here is a classic Roman weekend activity.
Museums, Culture, and Business
In addition to historical museums, EUR has in recent years strengthened its role as a business and congress district. Government offices, private headquarters, hotels, temporary exhibition spaces, and major event venues coexist with restaurants, lounge bars, and shopping centers. This mix makes the district lively from morning to night, with a full calendar of fairs, conferences, and sporting events.
How to Get to EUR
EUR is served by Metro Line B (stations EUR Magliana, EUR Palasport, EUR Fermi, and Laurentina terminus), numerous bus lines, and fast road connections — especially via Cristoforo Colombo — toward the Grande Raccordo Anulare and Fiumicino Airport.
Where to Stay Near EUR
If you’re looking for a tourist apartment conveniently located to visit EUR while staying in a lively and authentic neighborhood, our Little Blue and Little Red apartments in nearby San Paolo are just a few stops away on Metro Line B (Basilica San Paolo–EUR Palasport in minutes). Two twin apartments in the same building: bedroom with double bed, living room with kitchenette and sofa bed, bathroom, balcony, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Short-term rentals from two to thirty nights, with a discount when booked together — perfect for families, friends, or anyone attending a congress in EUR.
INSIGHTS
- Spazio Novecento: an exceptional venue
- The Salone delle Fontane
