Gardens of Vatican City
What to See If you want to visit this place, here is some useful information about it.
The Vatican Gardens are a true haven of peace and beauty, offering an oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. While exploring the gardens, you will be immersed in an enchanting landscape where Italian gardens, shaded pathways, and fountains blend together.
You will be able to admire the magnificent gardens meticulously landscaped with trimmed hedges and classical statues. The winding paths will guide you through tranquil spaces and allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the surroundings.
As you stroll through the Vatican Gardens, you will also discover numerous magnificent fountains. One of the most famous is the Fontana dell'Aquilone, which depicts an eagle holding a dragon in its talons. This majestic fountain creates a soothing atmosphere and adds an artistic touch to the overall gardens.
Lastly, don't miss the breathtaking view of St. Peter's Basilica that unfolds before you from the Vatican Gardens. This unique perspective will allow you to admire the majesty of the basilica in a green and peaceful setting, creating a truly magical experience.
Tips I'm sharing all my tips here for visiting this place under the best conditions.
Book Your Visit in Advance
The visit is only available either as a guided tour or on a panoramic bus. The ticket is often combined with the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. To secure a spot, it is essential to book your guided walking tour or panoramic bus tour at least one week in advance of your desired date. This will ensure your place and allow you to plan your schedule accordingly. Book here or there now.
Be Punctual
Make sure to arrive at the designated time for your visit. Tours are often scheduled with strict timelines, and it's important to be punctual to avoid missing the start of the tour.
Wear Comfortable Attire
Since you'll be exploring the Vatican Gardens on foot or on panoramic buses, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. Ensure you're comfortable to fully enjoy the visit.
Bring Water and Snacks
During the visit, it's wise to have water and snacks with you, especially if you have booked a 2-hour walking tour. This way, you can stay hydrated and replenish your energy if needed.
Follow the Guide's or Audio Guide's Instructions
If you've opted for a guided walking tour, carefully follow the guide's instructions and explanations. If you're using an audio guide on the bus, make sure to understand the instructions well to fully enjoy the experience.
Remember to follow the instructions provided by the tour organizer and adhere to the rules in place to ensure your visit to the Vatican Gardens goes smoothly and enjoyable. Enjoy your visit!
Information Here are all the useful information about this place (address, opening hours, coordinates, etc.).
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History Every place has its history. Discover all the events that have marked this place here.
The Vatican Gardens: An Urban Oasis of Wonder
The Vatican Gardens are a true marvel that extends over more than half of the Vatican territory, from South to Northeast. These gardens, which include emblematic sites such as Vatican Radio, the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, and the Tower of Saint John, form a collection of urban gardens of breathtaking beauty.
A Verdant Paradise of 23 Hectares
With an area of approximately 23 hectares, the Vatican Gardens occupy the majority of the Vatican Hill. Offering unparalleled panoramic views, their highest point stands 60 meters above sea level. These gardens are enclosed by imposing stone walls that surround the area to the North, South, and West, creating a protected space of rare beauty.
A Journey Through History
The Vatican Gardens bear witness to a rich and fascinating history. According to tradition, Saint Helena spread soil from Golgotha on the gardens' site in the 4th century, symbolically uniting the blood of Christ and the tombs of the early Christians. These gardens have their origins in the Middle Ages, when orchards and vineyards extended to the North of the Vatican Basilica. In 1279, Pope Nicholas III moved his residence to the Vatican and enclosed the area with walls, thus laying the foundations of the Vatican Gardens.
The Renaissance and Baroque Period: A Dazzling Transformation
In the early 17th century, during the papacy of Julius II, the Vatican Gardens underwent a significant landscape transformation. Bramante, the renowned Renaissance architect, created terraces and sloping gardens that separated the Belvedere Villa from the Basilica, giving rise to the Belvedere Gardens. These gardens comprise three new inner courtyards: the Cortile del Belvedere, the Cortile della Biblioteca, and the Cortile della Pigna, all realized in the style of Italian Renaissance landscaping. A magnificent rectangular labyrinth was also created, with boxwood framed by Italian stone pine and Lebanese cedar, adding a formal and majestic touch to the whole. Bramante also constructed a large straight defensive wall to replace the previous enclosure by Nicholas III.
A Serene Refuge in the Heart of the City
Today, the Vatican Gardens offer a tranquil and rejuvenating escape. You will discover medieval fortifications, historical buildings, monuments ranging from the 9th century to the present day, all surrounded by beautiful flowerbeds and green lawns. The fountains evoke a refreshing welcome, while the sculptures and artificial grottoes bear witness to the devotion to the Virgin Mary. Let yourself be captivated by this unique place where nature and history converge to create an enchanting harmony.
The Vatican Gardens are much more than just a green space: they are a living testament to a millennial history, a sanctuary of peace and beauty in the heart of Rome that will awe you at every step.
Family If you're visiting this place with your family, I'm sharing some great tips that will delight both kids and adults.
Plan fun activities
Before your visit, prepare fun activities such as scavenger hunts, riddles, or quizzes about the plants, statues, or fountains that you can find in the gardens. This will make the visit more interactive and entertaining for children.
Opt for a panoramic bus tour
If you want to introduce the Vatican Gardens to your children in a comfortable and playful way, choose a panoramic bus tour. Children will enjoy the bus ride and have a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes of the gardens. Book here or there now.
Search for animals and wildlife
The Vatican Gardens are home to a variety of animals and wildlife. Encourage your children to observe the birds, butterflies, squirrels, or even the fish in the ponds. This will help them connect with nature and appreciate the biodiversity of the place.
Explore the Genius Spirit Nearby at the Leonardo Da Vinci Experience Museum
As you find yourself in the magnificent Vatican Gardens with your children, a fascinating experience awaits close by: the Leonardo Da Vinci Experience Museum.
Discover the universe of Leonardo Da Vinci's genius like never before. This museum offers you the opportunity to delve into the creative mind of the artist, inventor, and Renaissance visionary. From ingenious inventions to astonishing sketches, this interactive experience will allow you to get up close to how Da Vinci shaped the future. Don't miss this chance to ignite curiosity in your children while immersing yourself in a world of limitless creativity. Book your tickets here and embark on a journey through the genius spirit of Leonardo Da Vinci.