Rome’s ex-Aquarium … that was never an aquarium

Living in Rome, I often pass the “ex acquario”, the former aquarium. For years, it was closed entirely, but I was always impressed by its beautiful exterior.

Later, I would learn it was never truly an aquarium.

The building was planned for Piazza Manfredo Fanti, in Rome’s Esquilino district, right beside the Termini railway station.

It was the idea of a fish breeder, Pietro Carganico, who originally proposed the idea for a multipurpose community structure that would incorporate fish. This whimsical palace was inaugurated in Esquilino on 29 May 1887, designed by architect Ettore Bernich.

It contained twenty tanks filled with fish and a small, stocked lake for sport fishing. The idea was that it would be a central point for events, exhibitions, concerts and recreation in Rome’s center. But it never fully took on its role as an aquarium, and would quickly transition away from the original vision for the structure.

From 1900-1930 it served various functions – as a theatre, movie theatre, a government warehouse and a warehouse for the Roman opera.

There’s a great, old poster showing that the space hosted performances of Buffalo Bill in 1890.

The acquario was completely abandoned in 1984. It was renovated 1985-1990. In 2003, it became the new Casa dell’Architettura, sotto l’egida dell’Ordine degli Architetti , the Architectural order headquarters.

They have numerous events and talks there and it is now often open to the public, including its small gardens that once housed the sports fishing lakes.

I finally had the chance to see inside, and to admire all the nautical details in this stunning space. If it’s open when you’re passing by, be sure to stop by and see it for yourself.