Hello everyone! My name is Emily and I’m so glad you’re here. It’s time to ditch the same old boring conversations, because we’ve got something special for you: a journey into the world of Rome’s hidden speakeasies. Through this blog post, I’m going to be taking you deep into the heart of some of Rome’s best-kept secrets – from discovering the most delicious cocktails to uncovering interesting stories about Italy’s capital city. From finding out how to get in, to experiencing a night like no other, let me show you why these underground bars are unmissable. So grab your martini glass and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
History of the Speakeasy Bars of Rome
Rome has an extensive history with speakeasies, going back to the era when Prohibition was law in Italy. During this period, from 1920-1930, many establishments were forced to go underground and become speakeasies – places where people could buy and consume alcohol without fear of being arrested or fined. Because there was such a large demand for alcohol during this time, these speakeasy bars began popping up all over Rome. They were often hidden behind secret doors and unmarked windows so that they could remain undetected by police.
Speakeasy bars soon became popular hangouts for Rome’s elite social set as well as commoners who wanted access to prohibited substances. Despite their illicit activities, these establishments still managed to maintain a certain level of classiness due to their upscale atmosphere and signature cocktails created by skilled bartenders. Some even had live music performances that added flavor to the already exciting atmosphere inside the bar.
Definition and Characteristics of a Speakeasy
A speakeasy is any establishment that serves alcoholic beverages illegally or in secrecy; it is also sometimes referred to as a “blind pig” or “blind tiger”. These types of bars are typically located in discreet locations away from public view so that they can avoid detection by authorities. Mostspeakeasies have no sign on the door nor do they advertise their existence outside its walls; instead patrons must be “in-the-know” about its whereabouts before gaining admission into one of these clandestine watering holes!
Most Roman speakeasies feature dim lighting, plush furniture (like velvet couches), dark wood paneling throughout – giving them an airy yet mysterious vibe – along with skilled bartenders crafting unique cocktails made up from locally sourced ingredients like citrus fruits or herbs found only around Italy’s Mediterranean coastlines which give them an undeniable sophistication & romanticism unparalleled anywhere else on earth! Additionally, some famous Roman speakesayes will provide special entertainment such as singers performing jazz classics while others may provide private rooms meant for intimate gatherings among friends & family alike!
The Prohibition Era in Rome
In 1920 an anti-alcohol law was passed in Italy prohibiting citizens from buying or drinking drinks containing more than 1% alcohol – primarily wine & beer – unless it brought home via prescription orders obtained through medical means only: i.e., if you needed something stronger than light beer/wine then you needed doctor’s note saying so! This ban lasted until 1930 when Mussolini reversed it due largely because he saw how much money his country could make off taxes generated through liquor sales alone–an act which effectively ended prohibition nationwide shortly afterwards! The outlaw status given off by these Underground pubs attracted all sorts including aristocrats looking for forbidden pleasures amidst la dolce vita lifestyle enjoyed here since ancient times; others simply wanted somewhere safe enough where they could drink freely without fear reprisal from law enforcement agents knocking at doors every few minutes…and finally those curious souls fascinated by tales whispered amongst travelers who’d experienced firsthand what it felt like walking into one such place themselves!.