Summer can be stifling in Rome and come August, most of the locals head for the hills. This year, with more Romans staying put than in the past—and hordes of visitors filling the streets—Rome seems more crowded and even hotter than ever.

But for those visiting the city in the heat of the summer (or those Romans taking a “stay-cation”), a new city-run pool and entertainment park has made it easy to find a splash of relief from the heat.

Take a dip, Colosseum-style.

The swimming pool, run by the Castellum Sport and Culture Association, is located in the heart of the historic center, just behind the Colosseum, in the Parco del Celio (a popular park frequently used as a concert venue). The pool is part of a larger city-run “resort” called All’Ombra del Colosseo, meaning literally “in the shadow of the Colosseum.” It includes the pool, food and drink stands, live music performances, a disco (this is Italy after all), and even a poker table!

All’Ombra del Colosseo is open for frolicking from June 26 through September 5, when the worst of the summer heat should have passed.

If you go…

Soaking away with the iconic monument in full view does come at a price: The pool costs €14 for an all-day pass (starting at 9 AM), and €10 for a half-day runs (starting at 2 PM). Reduced admission is available for children and students, from €7 to €9.

Cheapo note: Although the price seems steep, remember that the usual price for a beach club pass anywhere in Italy is about €10.

Getting there

Entrance on Via di San Gregorio (Parco del Celio).

For more information, call 06 70 03 17 01 or visit their web site (in Italian only).