Keyhole of the Order of Malta

The Keyhole of the Order of Malta, also known as the Knights of Malta Keyhole, is a small, unassuming brass keyhole set into a green door at the entrance of the Priory of the Knights of Malta on the Aventine Hill in Rome. When you peer through it, you are treated to one of the city's most iconic and perfectly composed views: a straight line of hedges and trees leading directly to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, framed as if in a painting. This optical illusion is a delightful surprise for visitors who stumble upon it or seek it out. The keyhole itself is part of a larger gate, and the experience is free and quick, but the line can be long during peak hours. The surrounding area is quiet and residential, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. The view is especially stunning at sunset when the light hits the basilica's dome.

Don't miss

• Peer through the keyhole for the iconic view of St. Peter's dome
• Visit the nearby Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) for another panoramic view
• Explore the Aventine Hill's quiet, leafy streets
• See the Basilica of Santa Sabina, a 5th-century church nearby
• Admire the medieval architecture of the Priory gate

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Keyhole of the Order of Malta

Cheapest way inMysterium Fidei Monastery & Secret Garden in Valletta4.8★ · 283 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →Best full dayRome by Golf Cart Private Tour: Beyond the Landmarks5★ · 4,873 travelers2–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$209 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleWorkshop: Maltese Souvenir Tile Design Experience5★ · 45 travelers~2 hoursFrom$37 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Expect a short wait in line, especially during peak tourist season.
• Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the view through the keyhole.
• The keyhole is easy to miss, look for the green door with the brass keyhole on Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.
• Combine your visit with the nearby Orange Garden for a panoramic view of Rome.

A bit of history

The Priory of the Knights of Malta on the Aventine Hill was built in the 10th century as a Benedictine monastery. In the 14th century, it was given to the Knights of Malta. The keyhole's famous view was likely designed in the 18th century by the architect Giovanni Battista Piranesi, who was a member of the order.