Antico Caffè Greco

The Ancient Caffè Greco, located on Via dei Condotti in Rome, is an iconic place not only for the city but for the entire Italy. Founded in 1760 by Nicola della Maddalena, this café has crossed centuries maintaining its aura of elegance and history intact. Its historical, artistic, and social importance is evidenced by the many illustrious personalities who have frequented it over the centuries. History and Foundation The café was inaugurated in 1760 by Nicola della Maddalena, of Greek origins, from whom it takes its name. Located in one of the most prestigious streets in Rome, near Piazza di Spagna, it quickly became a meeting point for intellectuals, artists, and politicians. Caffè Greco is the oldest café in Rome and the second oldest in Italy, surpassed only by Caffè Florian in Venice. A Salon for Intellectuals Over the centuries, the Ancient Caffè Greco has been frequented by numerous prominent figures from the world of art and literature. Among its illustrious patrons are names like Goethe, Stendhal, Byron, Keats, Shelley, Liszt, Wagner, and, more recently, Federico Fellini and Renato Guttuso. This makes the café not only a place of refreshment, but a true cultural salon where ideas were discussed and inspirations shared. Goethe, during his Roman stay in 1786-1788, was a frequent visitor to Caffè Greco. His observations and reflections on Rome, many of which were developed within the café’s walls, are documented in his “Italian Journey.” Even Keats and Shelley, English romantic poets, found refuge and inspiration at Caffè Greco, and it is not difficult to imagine that their conversations and exchanges influenced the literature of the time. The Charm of the Decor and Atmosphere Entering the Ancient Caffè Greco is like taking a trip back in time. The décor has remained almost unchanged since its founding. The walls are adorned with works of art, photographs, and memorabilia that testify to the passage of many illustrious guests. The marble tables, wooden chairs, and brass details contribute to creating an elegant and refined atmosphere, typical of the intellectual salons of the 18th and 19th centuries. The café extends over several rooms, each with its own distinctive character. Among the most famous are the Red Room and the Room of the Columns, places that have seen meetings and discussions among the brightest thinkers of the time. The environment, with its soft lights and the scent of coffee, creates a unique atmosphere that enchants both tourists and Romans. The Ancient Caffè Greco is not only a meeting place for artists and intellectuals, but has also played an important role in Italian political history. During the Risorgimento, the café was frequented by patriots and revolutionaries who discussed politics and freedom. Giuseppe Garibaldi, one of the protagonists of Italian unification, was one of the café’s patrons. Over time, Caffè Greco has maintained its importance as a place of meeting and cultural exchange. Even in the 20th century, when Rome became an increasingly modern and cosmopolitan city, the café managed to preserve its ancient charm, continuing to attract artists and intellectuals. An interesting anecdote concerns the visit of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author, who in his diary noted his impressions of Caffè Greco, describing it as a fascinating place where one could observe a varied humanity and savor a delicious coffee. Even the composer Richard Wagner, during his Roman stay, found in Caffè Greco an ideal place to draw inspiration and relax. Today, the Ancient Caffè Greco continues to be a place of worship for those who love history, art, and literature. Despite the passage of time, the café has managed to maintain its identity, adapting to the needs of a modern clientele without losing touch with its historical roots. Caffè Greco is often a destination for tourists, but it also remains a point of reference for Romans who want to immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere.