Go behind the scenes of Italian cinema at Cinecittà
While Rome is famous for its ancient monuments such as the Colosseum or the Pantheon, it is also home to a gem for film lovers: the Cinecittà studios. A true temple of cinematic creation, this complex has been the birthplace of many masterpieces and has hosted renowned directors and actors. A visit to Cinecittà in Rome offers a unique immersion in the history and secrets of the seventh art.
To enrich your stay, also check out our Rome tour guides to discover other wonders of the eternal city.
1. The History of the City of Cinema
Cinecittà’s glorious beginnings
Cinecittà was founded in 1937, at a time when Italy was seeking to strengthen its position on the world cultural and artistic scene. Benito Mussolini, then head of the fascist regime, wanted to make cinema a powerful propaganda tool, similar to Hollywood in the United States. This gave rise to the idea of building ultramodern studios capable of mass-producing films while promoting Italian identity.
The choice of location, a few kilometres from the centre of Rome, was no accident: a vast expanse of land on Via Tuscolana was chosen to house a complex that, when it opened, already had 73 buildings, including film sets, costume workshops, recording studios and even a film development laboratory. Cinecittà was then one of the largest cinema complexes in Europe.
The first film produced in these studios was Scipione l’Africano (1937), a historical epic that glorified the past of the Roman Empire. Cinecittà quickly established itself as a prolific production center, attracting the attention of Italian and European filmmakers.
The Dark Years: World War II
The Golden Age: The 50s and 60s
The rebirth of Cinecittà after the war marked the beginning of a golden age. The 1950s and 1960s were synonymous with effervescence for Italian cinema, driven by iconic directors such as Federico Fellini, Luchino Visconti and Michelangelo Antonioni.
Cinecittà became the cradle of Italian neorealism, a cinematographic movement that authentically depicted the social reality of the time. Films such as Rome, Open City (1945) by Roberto Rossellini and The Bicycle Thief (1948) by Vittorio De Sica laid the foundations for this artistic movement.
But it was above all the major international productions that made Cinecittà a must-see. Hollywood began to use the studios for its blockbusters, taking advantage of both the quality of the sets and the low cost of labor in Italy. Among the iconic films shot at Cinecittà are:
- Ben-Hur (1959), directed by William Wyler, with its spectacular chariot races.
- Cleopatra (1963), starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, a film that is remembered for its splendor and monumental sets.
- Quo Vadis (1951), a biblical epic that attracted thousands of extras.
It was also at this time that Federico Fellini made Cinecittà his favorite playground. There he shot masterpieces such as La Dolce Vita (1960) and 8½ (1963), films which contributed to making Cinecittà a legendary place.
Crisis period and modernization
After the 1960s, Cinecittà went into decline. Growing competition from Hollywood, technological change and the global economic crisis hit the Italian film industry hard. The studios gradually lost their prestige, although some Italian productions continued to be filmed there.
In the 1990s, Cinecittà began a transformation to adapt to the demands of modern cinema. Major investments allowed the infrastructure to be modernised and new international productions to be attracted. The sets were renovated, digital equipment was added, and the studios now hosted renowned television series and films, such as Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York (2002) and Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ (2004).
Cinecittà today: between history and innovation
Today, Cinecittà is much more than a filming location. The studios have become a real tourist attraction, with immersive tours allowing the general public to discover the behind-the-scenes of cinema. Permanent exhibitions celebrate the history of the studios, while mythical sets, such as those of ancient Rome, are open to visitors.
At the same time, Cinecittà continues to play a key role in the global film industry, hosting both Italian productions and international blockbusters. This marriage of tradition and modernity makes Cinecittà a living symbol of the artistic and technical excellence of cinema.
2. Guided Tours: Behind the Scenes of the Studios
A visit to Cinecittà in Rome is not just about looking at static sets. Here, each circuit takes you on an immersive adventure, where every corner tells a story.
The journey of mythical settings
The secrets of the Cinecittà workshops
- The costume workshops where sumptuous outfits are meticulously made.
- The special effects laboratories where the magic of cinema comes to life.
- The editing rooms where the scenes take shape before enchanting the big screen.
Practical advice
3. Legendary Sets and Iconic Films
Decors that marked history
- Ancient Rome: Vast and impressive, this setting has been used for films like Gladiator.
- Medieval Villages: Perfect for historical epics or fantasy stories.
- Classic Italian Piazzas: Ideal for capturing the authenticity of Roman charm.
4. The Interactive Experience: Become a Filmmaker for a Day
To make your visit even more memorable, Cinecittà offers interactive experiences.
Creative workshops
Unique exhibitions and collections
For families
5. Practical Information and Advice for a Successful Visit
Easy access from the center of Rome
Schedules and prices
- Opening hours: The studios are open every day except Tuesday, from 9:30am to 6:30pm. Last admission for guided tours is at 4:30pm, so plan to arrive early to enjoy the full experience.
- Entrance prices: The standard entrance ticket costs €15 for adults, €7 for children aged 6 to 12, and admission is free for children under 6. A family package is also available at €35 (two adults and two children). If you would like to enjoy a full guided tour with an expert guide, the price is €20 per person.
Restaurants nearby
- Ristorante Cinecittà: Located just a few steps from the studios, this restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine with dishes like fresh pasta and artisanal pizzas.
- Trattoria Da Nino: A friendly and affordable place to try local specialties such as cacio e pepe or saltimbocca alla romana.
- Spaccio Pasta: Ideal for a quick and tasty lunch, with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Panificio Di Cinecittà: For a gourmet break, this café offers excellent cappuccinos and typical Roman pastries.
Why visiting Cinecittà in Rome is a must
A visit to Cinecittà in Rome is much more than just a sightseeing trip. It is an immersive experience that immerses you in the history and magic of cinema. From legendary sets to interactive workshops and anecdotes from major productions, every moment spent in these studios is a true lesson in art and culture.
Whether you are passionate about cinema or curious to discover another side of the eternal city, Cinecittà will seduce you. So, are you ready to follow in the footsteps of legendary stars and directors? Don’t wait any longer, Rome and Cinecittà are waiting for you!
