Keats-Shelley House

Explore the Keats-Shelley House in Rome, Italy, the poignant last home of poet John Keats at the Spanish Steps, now a museum celebrating Romantic literature.

Overview

Nestled at the base of Rome's iconic Spanish Steps, the Keats-Shelley House offers a tranquil escape into the world of English Romantic poetry. This historic house museum is a poignant memorial to John Keats, who spent his final months here, and a celebration of fellow Romantic poets like Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, who were deeply influenced by Italy.

Visitors step back in time to explore the very rooms where Keats lived and died, surrounded by an extensive collection of artifacts. The museum houses one of the finest libraries of Romantic literature globally, making it a revered destination for literature enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet moment of reflection amidst the bustling Eternal City.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Keats-Shelley House begins with tragedy. In November 1820, the young English poet John Keats, battling advanced tuberculosis, traveled to Rome with his friend, artist Joseph Severn, seeking the therapeutic warmth of the Italian climate. Despite their hopes, Keats's health rapidly declined, and he died in his second-floor bedroom of this house on February 23, 1821, at the tender age of 25.

Following Keats's death, his belongings and the room's furnishings were tragically burned, a common practice at the time to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like tuberculosis. For decades, the house remained a private residence, though it quickly became a site of pilgrimage for admirers of Keats's poetry.

The concerted effort to preserve this significant literary landmark began in 1903, spearheaded by American poet Robert Underwood Johnson. With support from prominent Anglo-American and Italian figures, the house was purchased in 1906. It was formally dedicated and opened to the public as a museum in April 1909, overseen by the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association. During World War II, the museum's invaluable contents were carefully hidden to protect them from potential destruction.

What Makes It Special

What sets the Keats-Shelley House apart is its profound atmosphere and its dedication to preserving the legacy of the Romantic poets. It's not merely a collection of objects but a space imbued with the spirit of the era. The museum’s extensive collection includes rare manuscripts, first editions, letters, paintings, and personal relics belonging to Keats, Shelley, Byron, and their contemporaries.

Central to the experience is the meticulously recreated bedroom where Keats drew his last breath, offering a haunting glimpse into his final days. The house also boasts one of the world’s most comprehensive libraries dedicated to Romantic literature, containing over 8,000 volumes, which continues to grow with new acquisitions. From the windows and terraces, visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps, much as Keats himself would have seen them.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The museum holds fascinating relics, such as a replica of Keats's death mask, offering a tangible connection to the poet. While Keats resided here, his friend Joseph Severn was a constant companion, providing care and, reportedly, even playing piano to lift Keats's spirits in his adjacent room. It is said that Keats could hear the gentle gurgling of the Barcaccia fountain from his window, a small comfort in his suffering.

Although Percy Bysshe Shelley never lived in this particular house, his close friendship with Keats and his deep connection to Italy are central to the museum's narrative. Shelley was profoundly affected by Keats's death, composing his renowned elegy, “Adonais,” in his friend's honor. The museum also celebrates other literary figures who found inspiration in Rome, such as Oscar Wilde and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, whose works and memorabilia are part of the collection.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Keats-Shelley House is often described as a pilgrimage for those who cherish literature, history, or simply seek a quiet, contemplative experience. Most visitors spend about 45 to 60 minutes exploring its rooms, reading the detailed displays, and browsing the extensive library. The museum provides a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the lively Piazza di Spagna just outside its doors.

An introductory film offers valuable contextual information about the poets' lives and the house's history, helping visitors immerse themselves in the past. The presence of a gift shop allows guests to take a piece of this literary haven home with them. The Keats-Shelley House regularly hosts public talks, temporary exhibitions, and poetry readings, enriching its role as a vibrant cultural institution.