I don’t go to the Trastevere neighbourhood very often, as I think that it has lost its charm becoming an area overcrowded with tourists. But truth is there is still one unspoilt corner in Trastevere that looks like a quaint little village out of time. I usually visit this inner courtyard to avoid Trastevere’s chaos and daydream about the lives of those living in this striking corner of Rome.

Located almost halfway down Via Degli Orti d’Alibert there is a maze of hidden courtyards and characteristic alleys adorned with lovely potted plants and the ubiquitous hung out clothes. The complex is made up of beautiful buildings with traditional red-ochre facades, which are connected by narrow walkways. Built as a public housing complex, it recalls the working-class origin of the neighbourhood, which today is sadly known as the drunken tourists’ top destination in Rome.

But, as always, all you need to do is take a peek beyond the facade.

(Please note that the area is private, although always accessible through a small arch on the street.)