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The Tiber River (Latin: Tiberius; Tevere) has long been considered a defining feature of Rome, dating back to the days of the Great Empire. This meandering waterway encircles the famous hills of the Italian capital, gently skimming the silhouette of the Trastevere Neighbourhood.
The shimmering surface of the river is bordered by numerous landmarks of ancient and medieval architecture. Dozens of bridges connect the left and right banks of the Tiber, contributing to the romantic and picturesque scenery of Rome.
Geography of the Tiber River
The Tiber originates on the slopes of the Apennine Mountains in Emilia-Romagna. This full-flowing mountain river passes through Umbria and Lazio en route to Rome, joined along the way by the rivers Nera and Aniene. Just before reaching Rome, it is lined with concrete embankments and transforms into the Fossa Traiani channel as it flows through the city. The Tiber eventually empties into the Tyrrhenian Sea (Italian: Mar Tirreno). 
The total length of Italy’s third longest river is 406 km (252 mi), with a basin of 17,375 square kilometres (6,709 sq mi). It serves as the most important source of water for Rome. Italians often refer to the Tiber as “flavus”, meaning “white” in Latin – a nickname inspired by the river’s yellow-whitish hue.
Origin of the Name
There are several theories regarding the origin of the name “Tiber.” One suggests that it predates Latin, derived from the noun “Tibur” – the ancient name for the town of Tivoli, situated 30 km from Rome. You can learn more about a one-day trip to Tivoli in this article.
The river’s name also appears in Etruscan writings, where it was called “Tiferios.” This term may have been adopted and adapted into “Tiber” by the Italians.
According to legend, the river has a mythological origin. King Tiberinus, who lived in the 900s BC, drowned in the River Albula, which was subsequently renamed Tiberius. Jupiter is said to have made the deceased king the guardian of turbulent waters, naming him Volturnus. This ancient tale is thought to have inspired the artistic tradition of portraying rivers, seas, and oceans as powerful male figures.
History of the Tiber River
According to legend, it was in the Tiber that the newborn twins Romulus and Remus – founders of Rome – were to be drowned. Historians believe that Rome was founded in 753 BC on the banks of the River Tiber, approximately 25 km (16 mi) from the coast at Ostia. In ancient times, the river marked the boundaries between the Etruscans to the west, the Sabines to the east, and the Latins to the south. 
The river played a vital role for the Romans, whose economy thrived on the movement of merchant vessels. Traders brought food supplies, construction materials, and various goods into the capital. During the Punic Wars of the 3rd century BC, the port of Ostia became essential for naval operations, making the Tiber a strategic asset in Rome’s military campaigns.
Later, a spacious quay was constructed along the riverbank near the Campus Martius area. With the development of Rome’s central sewer system, the Cloaca Maxima, the Tiber became a key part of the infrastructure, channelling clean water to the city centre via underground tunnels and pipes.
Over time, the river began to silt up, and the capital’s port and maritime trade activities shifted to Rome’s neighbouring town of Fiumicino. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the pontificate undertook significant efforts to dredge and clean the riverbed within Rome. These works improved the river’s ecological state, though river transport has never regained its former importance.
Interesting Facts about the Tiber
- The Tiber rises from two mountain springs at an altitude of 1,268 metres (4,160.1 ft) above sea level. In 1930, Benito Mussolini had an ancient marble column erected at its source. The Latin inscription reads: “Here is born the river / sacred to the destinies of Rome.”
- One of the river’s defining traits is frequent flooding. The Campus Martius area is known to become submerged by up to 2 metres (6.6 ft). However, since 1876, high stone embankments built on both sides of the river have kept Romans relatively safe.
- Another interesting linguistic note: the phrase “to cross the Tiber” means to convert to Catholicism. Similarly, “to cross the Thames” refers to conversion to Anglicanism. Such idioms held symbolic weight during periods of religious conflict.
- In ancient Rome, criminals were executed by drowning in the Tiber. During the reign of Emperor Tiberius, convicts were led to the Gemonian Steps and cast into the river. Victims ranged from petty criminals to early Christian leaders.
- Romans have a fondness for bracing swims in cold water. On 1 January, bold and often daring locals, cheered on by lively crowds, leap into the Tiber from Ponte Cavour to mark the new year!
- The riverside promenade is ideal for morning and evening jogs or cycling tours.
Bridges on the Tiber River
The left and right banks of the Tiber are connected by 26 bridges within the city of Rome. Alongside newer constructions, several ancient bridges have withstood the test of time. For instance, the Milvian Bridge (Italian: Ponte Molle or Ponte Milvio) dates back to the 1st century BC. It was built to extend the Via Flaminia (an ancient Roman road) and link Rome with Ariminum (modern-day Rimini). In the 4th century AD, the Milvian Bridge was the site of a momentous battle between the emperors Maxentius and Constantine the Great (Latin: Constantinus).
This was not merely a clash for political supremacy but for religious dominance. Maxentius was defeated and drowned in the Tiber, while Constantine moved closer to becoming the sole ruler of Rome. Thus began the era of Christianity. Today, near the Milvian Bridge stands the Stadio Olimpico, which hosts the home matches of AS Roma and Lazio football clubs.
Ponte Sisto is a pedestrian bridge linking the right bank of the Tiber to Trastevere. This picturesque medieval stone bridge, dedicated to Pope Sixtus IV, makes a striking backdrop against the historic riverside. On the left bank, just across the bridge, lies Piazza Trilussa – a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors to Trastevere. From July to August, the quay at Ponte Sisto comes alive with tents offering snacks, cocktails, and live music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy local prices and soak up the cosy atmosphere of a Roman summer evening.
Read more about the best restaurants in the Trastevere district offering authentic local cuisine.
To the south of Vatican City, the river encircles a small island – Isola Tiberina – which, from above, resembles a fishing boat. In the 10th century, the Basilica of St. Bartholomew on the Island (Italian: Basilica di San Bartolomeo all’Isola) was founded here, housing the tomb of San Bartolomeo. Crossing the Tiber via the island, visitors will find on the right bank one of Rome’s most curious ancient sites – the Mouth of Truth (Italian: Bocca della Verità).
Ponte Sant’Angelo (meaning the Bridge of Hadrian) was constructed in the 2nd century AD and is now reserved for pedestrians. In antiquity, it was named after Emperor Hadrian, who commissioned its construction. The bridge leads directly to the Mausoleum of Hadrian, which later became known as Castel Sant’Angelo. This enormous stone fortress houses the remains of Christian pontiffs and a wealth of historical artefacts. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the bridge was faced in marble and adorned with statues of Saints Peter and Paul. In the 17th century, Gian Lorenzo Bernini completed its decoration with ten angel statues.
Tiber Cruise next to Castel Sant’Angelo
Upon arriving in Rome, treat yourself to a distinctive experience by embarking on a Tiber River cruise, gliding past iconic landmarks such as Castel Sant’Angelo and Vatican City.
Escape the city’s traffic and enjoy a tranquil voyage steeped in Roman heritage. With the Hop-on Hop-off cruise, you’re free to explore whichever sights take your fancy and easily resume your journey. Cruises depart every 30 minutes, minimising waiting times.
Discover the many layers of Rome – from the democracy-founding ancient republic and the spiritually rich papal Rome to the wonderfully chaotic modern capital. Experience Rome at your own rhythm and create lasting memories of your holiday. There’s no finer way to enjoy the Eternal City!
Another excellent option is the sunset aperitif cruise. Enjoy traditional Italian wine and local appetisers as you soak in the golden hues of a Roman evening. As the music plays and the boat glides along the river, you’re in for a magical hour of romance and charm on the Tiber.
Things to Know about the Tiber River
