Section: Parks and gardens in Rome

Rome Rose Garden

Beyond its ancient monuments and churches, Rome also has a vast natural heritage, consisting of parks, villas, and gardens. These green spaces, inherited from different eras, combine history and leisure. They include former aristocratic estates transformed into public gardens, wooded hills overlooking the city, valleys crossed by aqueducts, and small oases in the heart of neighborhoods. They allow visitors to experience the city from a different perspective.

Major Urban Parks in Rome

Rome preserves several large aristocratic estates converted into public parks. The most famous is Villa Borghese, which combines lawns, tree-lined avenues, a small lake suitable for boating, and prestigious museums. To the west, Villa Doria Pamphilj exemplifies the noble villa model with its formal gardens, fountains, and broad avenues. More wild, Villa Ada, a former royal property, is now valued for its wildlife, jogging paths, and lakeside picnics.

Archaeological Parks and Historical Landscapes

In southern Rome, the Appian Way Regional Park follows the path of the ancient Roman road, dotted with mausoleums, catacombs, and ancient remains. The Caffarella Valley retains a rural character with its sheep and historic farm, in contrast with the surrounding urbanization. Not far away, the Aqueduct Park contains large areas crossed by Roman aqueducts.
In the northeast, the Aniene Nature Reserve preserves vegetation along the Tiber’s tributary, offering a suitable area for walking.

Panoramic Gardens and Viewpoints

Some gardens provide remarkable views over Rome. The Pincio Terrace overlooks Piazza del Popolo and its urban perspective, while the Orange Garden on the Aventine frames a famous view of Saint Peter’s Dome. Monte Mario forms the highest point in Rome, offering an extensive panorama of the city and its hills.

Intimate and Romantic Spaces

More secluded, some gardens charm visitors with their own character. The Municipal Rose Garden, open in spring at the foot of the Aventine, offers a refined floral setting. Villa Celimontana overlooks the Colosseum, and Villa Sciarra in Trastevere is enriched with fountains and trees. The Botanical Garden, at the foot of the Janiculum, hosts a varied plant collection, while Villa Torlonia, a former princely residence, includes museums and green spaces.