The beauty of Rome goes beyond the famous landmarks, the iconic monuments, and the grand churches in the Vatican. Of course, there are the lively public squares, the charming streets, the romantic alleyways, and more. But there's another type of must-see attraction that's not as famous but just as, if not even more beautiful. It's the Roman villa. Throughout the Italian capital, there are a handful of magnificent villas that you simply must see for yourself. Out of all the villas in Rome, here are five of the most beautiful. Don't miss them when you're here!
Villa Medici
Probably the villa that perfectly encapsulates Italian grandeur at its finest, the Villa Medici is a sight to behold. Perched atop Pincian Hill, it was established by Ferdinando I de Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, in 1576. At the time, it became the first of many properties that the Medici family owned in the Italian capital as a symbol of their rise in power among the country's nobility. Today, the Renaissance structure houses the
French Academy in Rome, one of the premier
international schools in the city. Just imagine how lucky the academy students are to bask in this villa's glory every single day!
Source: Flickr.com/ Szczebrzeszynski
Villa Borghese
Out of all the landmarks on this list, Villa Borghese is definitely among the most popular. The pièce de résistance of its own 17-acre park, among
Rome's most beautiful gardens, many locals and tourists alike have visited the villa. The Renaissance influence can be seen in full view, what with its distinct square shape, precise symmetry, and the classical columns by the entrance. Today, the villa serves as the location for Galleria Borghese, spanning twenty rooms all filled with Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo art. It's one of the most-visited art galleries in all of Rome.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Villa Torlonia
What separates Villa Torlonia from the other villas on this list is that it's a lot quainter than others. While most of the other places on this list exhibit grandeur, opulence, and the like, this former residence of the noble Torlonia family sort of seems like it belongs more in the countryside than in the Italian capital. Its fairytale-like aesthetic, complete with its red brick exterior and gentle gardens, is far from the palatial glory of the other villas. But that's what makes this place just as much of a must-see as all the others. Arguably even more so!
Source: Flickr.com/ Jean-Pierre
Casina Valadier
Another hilltop villa worth seeing in Rome is Casina Valadier. Also on the smaller side, this place has since become one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city. While the other villas house academies and galleries, Casina Valadier serves delicious
Italian dishes and serves as the perfect events space for all sorts of occasions. Though compact in size, both the exterior and the interior are feasts for the eyes in their own rights. The Romanesque entrance, with all its imposing columns, is one of many highlights. As is the grand ballroom which has seen countless weddings take place.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Palazzo Barberini
Finally, there's Villa Barberini, are more commonly known as Palazzo Barberini. 'Palazzo' is right as the place itself is as palatial as ever, enough to make it Rome's own version of Buckingham Palace. And while the former is a lot smaller in comparison to the London landmark, it exhibits the same sort of reality. From its tall gates and manicured gardens to the vibrant frescoes and artwork-filled hallways inside, 'grand' doesn't even begin to describe this place. Just by walking inside, you can feel the history and the heritage that surround this palazzo.
Source: Flickr.com/ Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
Apart from the public squares and the famous fountains, the villas in Rome are truly worth seeing at least once. They all present the history and heritage of the Italian capital and all its majestic glory.
While they're not exactly the grand villas in Rome you were hoping for, your
luxury home in the city can be just as beautiful!
