Via del Corso

Is the Via del Corso truly “straight as an arrow”? Well, not quite. The Via del Corso, a bustling heart of Rome, stretches for about 1.5 kilometers, a vibrant artery pumping with life and history. It might seem surprisingly straight for a city known for its labyrinthine alleys. But I assure you, its journey south from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia isn’t without its subtle curves. This grand street, once known as Via Lata, meaning “Broad Way” in ancient times, tells a story that predates even its more recent name, Via del Corso, earned from the thrilling horse races, “corsa dei barberi”, held here during Carnival. Imagine the thunder of hooves, the cheers of the crowds, the dust swirling in the wake of riderless horses. This tradition, dating back to the 15th century, infused the street with an energy that continues to this day. In its prime, Via Lata was genuinely broad, especially compared to the narrow lanes around it. But imagine the sight of three grand arches temporarily squeezing its width: the Arcus Novus, the Arch of Claudius, and the Arco di Portogallo, each a testament to Roman victories. Sadly, only the Arch of Claudius still stands today. As you stroll down Via del Corso now, a vibrant tapestry of high-end shops and historic buildings, remember the ghosts of emperors and the echoes of racing horses. They are all part of the Via del Corso’s enduring charm.