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SocietyItaly

How did Romans beat the heat 100 years ago?

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.

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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.