A district to discover on foot

The Ostiense district blends industrial archaeology, urban art and great monuments along its edges. Here's what not to miss on an itinerary through post-industrial, creative Rome.

The Gazometro

The undisputed symbol of Ostiense is the Gazometro (the gasometer): the enormous circular steel structure of a former gasworks, tens of metres tall, towering over the district's skyline. You can't go inside, but its imposing industrial silhouette has become an icon of contemporary Rome, a perfect photo backdrop and a symbol of the neighbourhood's transformation.

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Centrale Montemartini

One of Rome's most fascinating museums is Centrale Montemartini: a former power plant where Roman statues stand in dialogue with old industrial machinery. It's a one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for grasping the soul of Ostiense, where the ancient meets industry. See our guide to Centrale Montemartini.

Street art

The walls of Ostiense are covered in signature murals: a stroll through the district's streets is an open-air urban art trail. Dig deeper with our guide to Ostiense street art.

The monuments along the edges

Two major destinations sit on the district's boundaries:

  • The Pyramid of Cestius and the Non-Catholic Cemetery, toward Testaccio.
  • The Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura, toward EUR.

See our guides to the Pyramid of Cestius and San Paolo fuori le Mura.

  1. Pyramid of Cestius and the Non-Catholic Cemetery
  2. Street art along the streets of Ostiense
  3. The Gazometro and its industrial archaeology
  4. Centrale Montemartini
  5. (Heading south) the Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see in Ostiense? The Gazometro, Centrale Montemartini, the street art with its great murals and, along the edges, the Pyramid of Cestius, the Non-Catholic Cemetery and the Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura.

What is the Gazometro? The enormous circular steel structure of a former gasworks, the symbol of Ostiense: you can't go inside, but its silhouette is an icon of industrial Rome.

What is Centrale Montemartini? A museum housed in a former power plant, where Roman statues stand in dialogue with industrial machinery: one of the most original visits in Rome.

Can you do it on foot? For the most part, yes: the street art, the Gazometro and the Pyramid are all walkable. For Centrale Montemartini and San Paolo, a short hop by metro or with a driver makes sense.

How much time do you need? About half a day for a full itinerary taking in the street art, the Gazometro, Centrale Montemartini and the monuments along the edges.

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Article #552 · Category: Districts · Updated: May 2026