Rome Termini Station

Rome Termini Station (Roma Termini) is Italy's most important railway hub, the second busiest station in Europe by passenger volume (behind Paris Gare du Nord), and one of the largest mobility centers on the continent. Situated on the Esquiline Hill, it takes its name from the ancient Baths of Diocletian located just steps from the main entrance.

Overview of its architecture, organization, and services:

Architecture: The "Dinosaur" and Rationalism Rome Termini’s present appearance combines two distinct architectural eras, originating from works started in the 1930s and finalized for the 1950 Jubilee:

• The "Dinosaur" (Main Hall): The station's most famous futuristic feature, this entrance hall features a grand, undulating reinforced-concrete canopy. Romans affectionately nicknamed it "the Dinosaur" (il Dinosauro) due to its silhouette resembling a prehistoric reptile. The glass facade floods the ticket hall and main entrance with natural light.

• The Rationalist Wings: Flanking the station along Via Giolitti and Via Marsala, the side buildings were designed by architect Angiolo Mazzoni. They display the classic 1930s Rationalist style, featuring monumental marble and travertine cladding alongside clean, strict geometric lines.

Levels and Transport Connections The multi-level station accommodates daily traffic for high-speed trains (Frecciarossa and Italo), international routes, Intercity, and regional services:

• Platform Level (Street Level): The hub's main concourse houses 24 main terminal tracks, plus the "Est" (East) tracks used primarily for Lazio regional services and the Leonardo Express direct shuttle to Fiumicino Airport. A long connecting corridor along the track heads offers extensive services and shops.

• Terrazza Termini (Upper Level): An elevated dining hall accessible via escalators from the main concourse and platforms. It overlooks the central gallery, providing a dedicated resting and dining space for travelers.

• Underground Level (Forum Termini): A vast subterranean shopping mall providing direct access to the Rome Metro. Termini serves as the sole transfer hub connecting the city's primary subway lines:

  • Line A (Battistini – Anagnina)

  • Line B / B1 (Laurentina – Rebibbia / Jonio)