CONTENT

Villa Gregoriana is actually an ´accessory´ of the primary structure, which is the hydraulic structure. Set over the ancient Roman villa of Manlius Vopiscus, the Villa was built in 1834 on the basis of the directives of Cardinal Rivarola and carried out under the control of Msgr. Massimo and the architect Folchi. The park of the Villa, which stands in the chasm of the former course of the Aniene, to the left of the great waterfall (in the so-called baratri tiburtini – Tiburtine chasms), is an admirable synthesis of the natural landscape with the well camouflaged manmade one overlapping it. Situated immediately below the ancient Acropolis of Tivoli, the Villa is dominated by the Roman temples attributed to Vesta, the Sibyl, and Tiburnus which, although they are just outside its boundaries, can rightfully be counted as part of the considerable archaeological heritage of the site. The old riverbed and the steep walls delimiting it were used to create a walkway amidst limestone formations, caves, gorges, and archaeological remains, still of impressive beauty today. A spectacular view is that of the drop of the Great Waterfall, magnificent and impressive in the powerful rush and roar of its water. Descending further, we find the dark green of holm oak, cypress, and pine trees; then the water that falls in front of the Cave of Neptune and forms a pond, then sinking into the Cave of the Sirens.Today, the current arrangement of the site, the ownership of which was transferred in 1870 from the Papal State to the Italian Government, even if this was determined by the need to regulate the waters of the Aniene, is – with its archaeological structures, remains of various ages, and exceptional natural elements, caves and panoramic views – a place of enormous environmental, historic, and artistic value.

DETAILS

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departs: Based on your request 8,00-10,00 SUGGESTED DEPARTURE TIME
• Pick up/Drop off location: Your Hotel in Rome
• Inclusions: Transportation, driver, entrance tickets, and private English speaking guide

NOTES

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. It is recommended to wear sunglasses and sunhats during summer months as it gets quite hot.
• Days: Daily
• Restrictions: Villa Gregoriana is closed on Mondays and for winter season. The first Sunday of each month the availability of the tour has to be checked due to the special events that could be organized in the museums