Bar Necci is a historic jewel in the heart of Pigneto
Fancy a coffee in Rome but also an exciting journey through history? Discover with us the incredible history of this famous bar, linked to the history of the Resistance.
Necci since 1924
We suggest you come with us to visit one of the most magical places, in one of the most eccentric and hipster neighborhoods of Rome. A historic gem in the heart of Pigneto! This is Necci since 1924, a bar that has seen generations of Romans and others pass by, becoming a true point of reference.
Pigneto District: Home of the Famous Necci Bar
Pigneto is one of Rome’s most fascinating and lively neighborhoods that has undergone a real metamorphosis in recent decades. Once considered a difficult and neglected neighborhood, today it has become a center of creativity and culture. Artists, musicians and young creatives have begun to populate it, transforming it into a meeting place for those seeking a bohemian atmosphere. The area has inspired important Italian directors such as Pier Paolo Pasolini, who shot some scenes of his movies here in the 1960s. Today Pigneto is the right place to admire street art and eat excellent food! Its streets are a true open-air museum, with colorful murals and works by local and international artists. In addition, trendy bars and restaurants are everywhere, as are historic trattorias serving typical Roman dishes.
The origins: a bar with a long history
At the beginning of the twentieth century, a humble farmer named Enrico Necci, coming from the enchanting hills of Ciociaria area (a part of Lazio region located in the south of Rome), ventured to the capital in search of fortune. He chose Pigneto as the destination of his journey. So, in 1924 he bought an old farmhouse in ruins, in Fanfulla da Lodi street, renovating it with mastery and transforming it into a dairy store. In 1936, he decided to rename it Gelateria Impero, a name that evoked the era of great splendor and which would later become a much-loved neighborhood bar.
The hidden basement
This wonderful bar also had a small underground cellar, used by the Necci family to store some products. The same cellar was later used by the inhabitants of the neighborhood as an air raid shelter. It was during the tumultuous years of the war that Enrico Necci lost his life right in front of his shop. What Enrico did not know is that his was not just a cellar, but a real Roman hypogeum dating back to the 1st century BC that was discovered only in 2020.
Necci bar today and our Candlelight tour!
On September 23rd, 2021, the hypogeum was inaugurated and opened to the public. One of the tunnels has returned to being a wine cellar, available to customers. Are you interested in discovering and learning more about the history of this magical place? Do you want to know more about the background of this fantastic discovery and the restored cave? Then take part in our Candlelight wine tasting experience! A delicious candlelight dinner immersed in an exclusive atmosphere. Excellent wine, appetizers and other typical delicacies are the backdrop to this incredible journey into the past of Rome’s history. You will have the opportunity to access the cave and taste good wine, surrounded by candlelight, for a unique experience. A local food and wine guide will be happy to give you all the information on this magical place that we Romans love so much!
