City of the Other Economy
A social enterprise occupying 3,500 square meters of the restored Campo Boario, the former Slaughterhouse of Rome, dedicated to sustainable agriculture, fair trade, renewable energy, and conscious consumption.
At a glance
Located in Testaccio’s historic Campo Boario, the City of the Other Economy transforms an industrial heritage site into a working marketplace for organic products, fair-trade goods, and green initiatives. The space functions as exhibition hall, restaurant, bookshop, toy library, and venue for seminars and public events—all organized around principles of environmental responsibility and equitable economics.
History
The Slaughterhouse of Testaccio was built as a complex of pavilions on the slopes of Monte dei Cocci for the slaughter and distribution of meat to Rome’s population. The Campo Boario was later repurposed through conservative restoration guided by bio-architectural principles. The City of the Other Economy emerged from this recovery as part of a larger urban regeneration plan that includes the City of Arts.
What you see
The restored structures preserve the industrial character of the former Weights of the Cattle building, original canopies, and pavilions. The conservative restoration respects the historical context while introducing contemporary sustainable design. Inside, 3,500 square meters are organized into distinct zones: exhibition and retail spaces, a biobar, an organic restaurant, a children’s library, and a large square for markets and performances.
Cultural significance
The City of the Other Economy represents one of Europe’s first large-scale spaces entirely dedicated to alternative economic models—those prioritizing environmental stewardship, fair value distribution, and human welfare over profit maximization. It promotes conscious citizenship through education, research, and community participation. Management operates through a Steering Committee of partner organizations, reflecting participatory governance aligned with its ethical mission.
Key facts
- Address: Largo Dino Frisullo 1, Roma
- Coordinates: 41.874929, 12.473168
- Phone: 06 575 8272; 3476905136
- Website: cittadellaltraeconomia.org
- Size: 3,500 square meters
Practical information
General hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 07:30–24:00. SpazioBio (organic shop): Tuesday–Sunday, 09:30–19:00. CaféBoario (biobar): Tuesday–Sunday, 07:30–21:00. StazionediPosta (organic restaurant): Wednesday–Monday. TanaLIBeRItutti (toy library): Tuesday–Friday 14:00–19:00; Saturday–Sunday 10:00–19:00. The venue hosts conferences, seminars, training courses, fairs, and exhibitions in its public square.
Getting there
The City of the Other Economy is in Rome’s Testaccio district. Access by bicycle (racks available inside) or car (ample parking from Largo Dino Frisullo or Lungotevere Testaccio). From Termini Station: Metro Line B to Piramide, then bus 719 to Macro stop, or bus 170 to Ponte Testaccio.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →Historical events at this place (1)
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