Villa Doria Pamphili, located in the Monteverde district, contains a stunning, mid- 17th century palace surrounded by garden mazes, jogging trails, fabulous fountains, a superb grotto, and pine lined views of Rome from atop the Janiculum hill.
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Country residence of the Doria Pamphilj family, Villa Doria Pamphilj, recently restored for government use and receptions, was the scene of fighting between Garibaldi’s troops and the French army in the mid 19th century.
Built by the noble Roman Pamphili family in 1630, the Villa Doria Pamphilj now represents a huge and beautiful park situated just outside the ancient walls of Rome. It is the second-largest public park in Rome after the regional park of the Ancient Appia.
The central attraction of the park is undoubtedly the Casino del Bel Respiro (literally “small villa of good breath”). It is in baroque style, full of statues and ornaments.
It overlooks a geometric secret garden, raised above the valley below, which contains a series of embellishments and curious architecture including statues, fountains, chapels, and Roman ruins.
As you roam the grounds, do not miss the stream that, after a series of small waterfalls, flows over a pretty pond, framed by typical Mediterranean vegetation.
You can also see the Aqua Traiana aqueduct built by Emperor Trajan and originally used to bring water from the area around Lake Bracciano to Trastevere.
The aqueduct now supplies the many fountains in the park, the Fontanone on the Gianicolo as well as fountains in Trastevere.
There are also activities for those who wish to go for a jog or play polo in the beauty of this green lung of Rome. The cycle path extends for 11 km through areas of outstanding and unique natural and artistic beauty.
During the summer months Villa Pamphilj becomes an open-air theatre with concerts and performances taking places under the tall umbrella pines.
Opening times change according to the season. From October to February, it is open from 7am to 6pm; in March and September it is open from 7am to 8pm and from April to August from 7am to 9pm. ■