1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
SocietyItaly

How did Romans beat the heat 100 years ago?

01:41

This browser does not support the video element.

September 9, 2025

Shaved ice in Rome during a heat wave? Only a few places are continuing the tradition of making grattachecca, which have been around since ancient times. These frozen treats are served with syrup and fruit, and they’re unique to Rome.

In Rome’s Trastevere district, Alessandro Simoni keeps a century-old tradition alive with his kiosk selling Grattachecca—hand-scraped ice topped with syrup and fresh fruit. Originating from his great-grandparents, the refreshing treat draws crowds from morning until late night during summer. With only two stands in Rome still using traditional ice blocks, Grattachecca remains a rare and cherished Roman street food.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW