The Treaties of Rome: Visit to the Campidoglio

On the morning of June 23, 2025, the Travelogue association visited Rome, in particular Piazza del Campidoglio, the place where the Treaties of Rome were signed, fundamental and essential documents that marked the birth of the modern European Union.

These treaties, signed by Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, created a common market, abolished customs duties between member states, and promoted economic cooperation and development for a future European Union. The visit was necessary to take a photograph of the historic site for project purposes: the photograph will be part of the photo exhibition planned for the EUxFuture project.

The Treaties of Rome were signed on March 25, 1957, in the Hall of the Horatii and Curiatii in the Campidoglio in Rome. A photograph was taken of the square from different angles, with the equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius dominating the centre and the historical photograph of the ceremony attended by the foreign ministers of the six founding countries in the foreground.

But let’s take a closer look at what the Treaties of Rome are and what significance they have for the EU. Quoting the detailed information on the EU website, there are two Treaties of Rome: the treaty establishing the European Economic Community (EEC) and the treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community (EAEC or Euratom).

The Treaty establishing the European Economic Community created a common market among the six participating countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands). The aim was to promote closer ties and stimulate economic growth through increased trade.

On the other hand, the main objectives of the Euratom Treaty were: to develop research and ensure the dissemination of technical knowledge; to establish uniform safety standards for the protection of the population and workers; to facilitate research; and to ensure that nuclear materials are not diverted from their intended use, particularly for military purposes.

The Treaties of Rome are considered the founding act of European integration, adding to the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) of 1951. They entered into force on January 1, 1958.

Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.