The Keats-Shelley House
At the foot of the Spanish Steps, the Keats-Shelley House is a museum, dedicated to the Romantic poets, that has been set up in the house where John Keats spent the last months of his life. The poet came to Rome in 1820, in search of a better climate to cure his tuberculosis, and he stayed here with his friend Joseph Severn. This was something of a mixed blessing as Severn did not believe that Keats had tuberculosis, and encouraged him to go against his doctors' advice. Keats died on 23 February 1821, four months after arriving in Rome. He was buried in the Protestant Cemetery. The house was acquired by the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association in 1907.
Things to See
Although the original furniture of the house was destroyed after Keats' death (as was usual following a death from tuberculosis), the interior of the House has been refitted in great detail to recall the early nineteenth-century. Glass cases display manuscripts and memorabilia. From time to time, the House plays host to lectures and poetry recitals. There is also a library, dedicated to the Romantic poets, where visiting academics may consult a large collection of books - contact the museum for details.
How to get there
The Keats-Shelley House (Piazza Di Spagna 26, Roma 00187, Tel:06 6784235) is at the base of the Spanish Steps in the Piazza di Spagna. The Piazza di Spagna has its own metro stop on linea A.
Opening times
The Keats-Shelley House is open 9am-13pm and 15pm-18pm (Monday to Friday), Saturday 11am-14pm and 15pm-18pm on Saturday. Tickets cost €3.50 (free for children under six). There are reductions available for large group visits, which should be booked in advance.
