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The Arch of St Roch in Monterotondo: the gate that Garibaldi passed through
The Arch of San Rocco, known as Porta Garibaldi, provides pedestrian access to the historic centre of Monterotondo. It stands just a few steps away from the Church of San Rocco, and is a national monument. Of the four gates that once encircled Monterotondo, only this one remains, with its round arch leading into the old town.
An arch that changed its name with history
The Roman architect Frontoni designed the archway in 1722, and its construction was completed in 1751. Until 1870, it was called Porta Romana. Then Garibaldi arrived — literally. On October 26, 1867, the commander had to burn down the wooden gate blocking the passage in order to conquer the town from the Tiber Valley side. He stayed for a few days at Orsini Castle before continuing toward Tivoli to disband the Legion. From that day on, the arch bears his name.
A plaque referring to a piece of history
On the wall there is a plaque placed during the Fascist era, although it was partially chiselled away in the 1940s. It commemorated the Campaign of the Roman Agro and the Battle of Mentana-Monterotondo of 1867, and also references the March on Rome by the Blackshirts.
How to reach the Arch of San Rocco
The archway is located in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi 6, 00015 Monterotondo (RM).
