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Aventine Keyhole (Buco della Serratura)

8.1Friend Score / 10

#17 of 20 Attractions in Rome

free
Known forfreehidden gemphotographyquirky
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A single keyhole in the gate of the Knights of Malta priory on the Aventine Hill frames a perfectly composed view of St. Peter's dome through a tunnel of manicured hedges — one of Rome's most magical optical illusions and entirely free. The queue is usually short outside peak midday hours, and the surrounding Aventine neighborhood with its orange garden and rose garden makes for a lovely stroll. Go at golden hour for the best light through the keyhole.

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Last verifiedJuly 14, 2026

Friend Score

8.1/10
  • Value10.0
  • iconic7.5
  • excellence8.0
  • Crowd level4.0
  • Authenticity8.5
  • Accessibility7.5
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Last reviewed July 14, 2026 by AskTheCity Editorial.