Rome’s Orto Botanico (botanical garden) is pleasantly tucked away behind Palazzo Riario Corsini in Rome’s ancient Trastevere quarter, just steps from the historical centre. One of the city’s most stunning – and best-kept secrets, the ‘Orto Botanico’ is a hidden treasure in the heart of a breathtaking city and one of the most important botanical gardens in all of Italy. It is a delightful place to relax and get enjoy a bit of nature right within the heart of Rome.
The 18th century Palazzo Corsini looms over the gardens like in a fairy tale . Tåhe palazzo is not only home to the famous Accademia dei Lincei – the scientific academy whose prestigious members once included Galileo – but to the Galleria Corsini, a small but delightful museum that hosts works by masters such as Caravaggio and Rubens.
Stretching upwards the gardens reach their summit on the Gianicolo hill, offering unforgettable views of Rome’s stunning cityscape and distant Alban hills – a cool, green and enchanting refuge from the tourist-filled streets below.
A 5-euro entrance fee includes the self-guided tour in Italian or English, and even offers a special itinerary for the blind. The Orto Botanico is located at Largo Cristina di Svezia, Trasevere and is open Tuesday through Saturday, but closed in the month of August.
The Galleria Corsini is located around the corner at on Via della Lungara and is open from Tuesday through Sunday from 8.30 to 7:30. Admission there is 4 euros.