Villa Gregoriana

Where Nature and History Embrace

Tucked into the dramatic landscape below Tivoli’s historic center, Villa Gregoriana is a hidden gem that blends wild nature, Roman ruins, and breathtaking scenery. Commissioned by Pope Gregory XVI in the 1830s to redirect the Aniene River and prevent flooding in Tivoli, the park was transformed into a romantic masterpiece where waterfalls, grottos, and ancient temples coexist in harmony.

Unlike the grandeur of Villa d’Este or the imperial scale of Villa Adriana, Villa Gregoriana offers something more intimate and immersive — a sensory experience of climbing forested trails, walking along ancient Roman paths, hearing the thunder of waterfalls, and discovering sacred temples clinging to cliffs.

What Makes Villa Gregoriana Special?

This site is a natural amphitheater carved by water and time. Its main attraction is the Great Waterfall (Cascata Grande) — a dramatic 120-meter drop that once inspired poets, painters, and aristocrats during the Romantic era. As you descend into the gorge, you’ll encounter rocky caves, moss-covered paths, and panoramic terraces offering views over the river and valley.

Highlights of the Visit

🏛️ Temple of Vesta and Temple of the Sibyl

Perched above the gorge, these ancient Roman temples offer unforgettable views and a powerful atmosphere — especially at sunset.

🌊 Cascata Grande

One of the highest waterfalls in Italy, born from the redirected Aniene River. The sound alone is an experience.

🕳️ Grotto of Neptune and Grotto of the Sirens

Mysterious and damp caves carved through centuries of water erosion — walkable and lit for visitors.

🌿 Romantic Trails

Stone steps, bridges, tunnels, and viewpoints that feel straight out of a 19th-century painting.

🚶‍♂️How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Rome → Tivoli (~45–60 min), then a 5-minute walk to the park entrance
• By Car: Around 45 minutes from Rome via A24
• Parking: Available in Tivoli’s town center

🕘 Visiting Info

• Opening Hours: Varies by season (typically open from 10:00 AM to ~6:30 PM)
• Closed on Mondays
• Tickets: ~€8–10 for adults (free/discounted for EU citizens under 18/25)

💡 Travel Tips

• Ideal for nature lovers, couples, and photographers
• Trails are steep in places – wear good walking shoes
• Bring a bottle of water — it’s a hike, not a stroll