Termini Station

Rome Termini Station is the main railway station in Rome and one of the busiest in Europe. Officially inaugurated in 1950, the station has a history that dates back to the 19th century, when the need to connect Rome with the rest of Italy became evident with the unification of the country. The original project for the station dates back to 1863, but the current structure is the result of numerous expansions and renovations, which have transformed Termini into a symbol of modernity and development. The station is named after the ancient Baths of Diocletian, located nearby, dating back to Roman times. This historical connection gives Termini a special charm, combining Rome’s imperial past with the frenzy of modern life. The current station building, designed by architects Massimo Castellazzi, Vasco Fadigati, Achille Pintonello, and Eugenio Montuori, is an example of Italian rationalist architecture from the post-war period. Its distinctive feature is the large curved canopy, nicknamed “the Dinosaur,” which overlooks the main entrance and gives the station a monumental and futuristic appearance. Rome Termini is not just a railway hub; it is also a shopping center and a cultural reference point. Inside, in addition to the tracks and services for travelers, there are shops, restaurants, bars, and a supermarket. This combination of services makes the station a lively and bustling place, frequented not only by travelers but also by Roman citizens. One of the most interesting aspects of Termini is its role in Rome’s contemporary history. During World War II, the station was severely damaged by bombings. The post-war reconstruction was an opportunity to redefine urban space and create a modern structure that could accommodate the increase in rail traffic and represent the city’s rebirth. The official inauguration took place in 1950, in the presence of the President of the Republic Luigi Einaudi, marking a moment of rebirth for the entire nation. Termini Station is also a crucial point for urban mobility in Rome. It is the main hub of metro lines A and B, and an interchange point for numerous bus and tram lines. This makes it a focal point in the daily lives of millions of people who live and work in the capital. Every day, around 480,000 people pass through the station, making it one of the busiest in Europe. A curious anecdote concerns the installation of a large sundial in the main gallery of the station. This sundial, designed by astronomer Filippo Eredia, was inaugurated in 1955 and represents a unique attraction, combining science and art in a context of high public attendance. From an architectural point of view, the station has undergone further modifications and renovations in recent decades. One of the most significant projects was the restyling in 2000, on the occasion of the Jubilee. This intervention improved passenger services, expanded commercial spaces, and renewed infrastructure. The exterior facade was cleaned and enhanced, making the station not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.