A Secret of Rome
The Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta is one of my favorite places and home to one of the greatest secrets in Rome. To get there, take a leisurely stroll up the Aventine and enjoy the historic and beautiful homes and buildings along the way.
The square was created by Giovanni Battista Piranesi in the 18th century as a bit of whimsy. When you set foot in the square, you're actually no longer in Rome, not even in Italy! You're in the realm of the Knights of Malta. Proof of this are the two armed security guards watching the square 24 hours a day. The monumental entryway at the back of the square was the work of Piranesi and leads to the residence of the Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta