Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
While Rome is renowned for its monuments, ruins, and famous squares, it also boasts a surprising number of green spaces that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking to stroll through gardens with centuries-old trees, enjoy scenic views, or relax in a historical park, Rome’s green spaces are a testament to the city’s rich past and its commitment to maintaining natural beauty.
1. Villa Borghese: Rome’s Central Oasis
Located just a 25-minute walk from QuodLibet B&B, Villa Borghese is Rome’s third-largest public park and a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Originally created in the 17th century by Cardinal Scipione Borghese to complement the Borghese Gallery, it has transformed into one of the most popular green spaces in the city. Here, visitors can enjoy a mix of manicured gardens, ancient sculptures, museums, and even a lake where you can rent a boat. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet escape or a cultural afternoon with the Galleria Borghese and the Zoo Bioparco within walking distance.
- Curiosity: The park was once a private garden of the Borghese family, known for its Baroque art collection, but was donated to the city in 1903.
2. Villa Doria Pamphili: The Largest Park in Rome
For a more expansive experience, head to Villa Doria Pamphili, Rome’s largest park, covering 184 hectares. Located about 30 minutes by car from QuodLibet, this park was once the private estate of the Pamphili family. Its rolling hills, beautiful gardens, and tree-lined avenues make it the perfect place for running, cycling, or a leisurely picnic.
- Curiosity: The villa was originally designed in the 17th century by Alessandro Algardi for Pope Innocent X, and the park is now known for its impressive Italian-style gardens.
3. Parco degli Acquedotti: A Journey Through Ancient Engineering
For something a bit more unique, visit the Parco degli Acquedotti, located just 40 minutes by metro from QuodLibet. Here, you’ll find towering remains of ancient Roman aqueducts, including the iconic Aqua Claudia and Aqua Anio Novus, stretching across lush meadows. This park is a reminder of Rome’s engineering genius and offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the city.
- Curiosity: The park is part of the Appian Way Regional Park and was featured in films like La Dolce Vita and The Great Beauty.
4. Villa Ada: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
About 20 minutes by car from QuodLibet, Villa Ada is one of Rome’s largest parks and a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s wild, forest-like atmosphere is perfect for those who enjoy hiking and exploring. Once the royal hunting grounds of the Savoia family, Villa Ada is now open to the public and offers lakes, wooded paths, and even a summer music festival.
- Curiosity: The park has a rich history connected to Italy’s royal family and is home to an ethnographic museum focused on African art and culture.
The Green of Prati: A Hidden Gem
The Prati neighborhood, where QuodLibet B&B is located, is known for its elegance and proximity to Vatican City, but it’s also a green enclave in its own right. Walking through Viale delle Milizie and Via Cola di Rienzo, you’ll find stately Platano trees that line the streets, creating shade and a refreshing atmosphere, especially in the warmer months. This area is perfect for a relaxing stroll after a day of sightseeing, offering a taste of local life away from the tourist crowds.
- Curiosity: The Platano trees in Prati are not only a key feature of the area’s greenery but also have historic value, as some were planted in the late 19th century when the neighborhood was being developed as part of the city’s expansion.
5. The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci)
Located on the Aventine Hill, about 30 minutes by bus from QuodLibet, the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) is a small but picturesque park offering one of the best panoramic views of the city. This peaceful garden is perfect for a sunset visit, with its rows of orange trees, ancient walls, and a spectacular view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Curiosity: The park is formally known as the Savello Park and was once part of a medieval fortress. The famous “keyhole view” of St. Peter’s Basilica, found nearby at the Knights of Malta villa, is a must-see.
How Green Spaces Shaped Rome
Rome’s green spaces, from the carefully curated gardens of the Renaissance to the wild, untamed beauty of its larger parks, have always played an essential role in the city’s history and urban landscape. Many parks originated from noble estates or religious orders, evolving into public spaces that serve as escapes for locals and tourists alike.
Today, these spaces not only preserve the city’s connection to its ancient and Renaissance past but also provide crucial environmental benefits, helping to balance urbanization and maintaining the ecological health of the city.
