Villa Aurelia, 17th-century villa on Janiculum Hill, Rome, Italy
Villa Aurelia is a 17th-century residence situated at one of the highest points within Rome's ancient walls, offering multiple gardens with views across the city's skyline. The building features a main hall seating 190 guests, three interconnected rooms on the Noble Floor, and several outdoor spaces for events.
The building was originally constructed in the 17th century and later named after the mythological goddess. The American Academy in Rome acquired the property in 1909 and undertook major renovations to transform it into a modern cultural institution.
The villa now operates as a center for music performances, art exhibitions, and academic conferences that reflect the mission of the American Academy in Rome. Visitors regularly encounter international artistic and scholarly events that transform the spaces into active hubs of exchange and creativity.
The property sits on the Janiculum Hill and requires climbing to reach, so visitors should allow time to explore the different levels and gardens. It is helpful to confirm in advance which areas are accessible during a visit and how much time to set aside for viewing the spaces.
The property maintains a policy of no more than one event per day, allowing visitors or guests complete access to all the spaces and facilities. This approach ensures that the three separate garden environments can be used without any overlap or interference from other gatherings.
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