Hadrian’s Villa – between art, power, and culture

History and description

Built between 118 and 138 AD by order of Emperor Hadrian, from whom it takes its name, the villa was constructed over pre-existing residences and later expanded with the aim of becoming a retreat and summer residence. After the emperor’s death, it remained in use until the 3rd century, after which it was abandoned until the Renaissance, when it was rediscovered thanks to archaeological excavations. These revealed its vast size of 120 hectares, including numerous buildings such as the Large and Small Baths, the Piazza d’Oro, and the Pecile.

Curiosities

Drawing inspiration also from Greek art, the complex was intended to reflect both the power of Imperial Rome and the refined culture of the emperor himself.

Access

Open daily with scheduled visiting hours, the villa can be fully visited at the cost of €12, with reductions and free entry on specific occasions.

How to reach it

Located 30 kilometers from Rome, Hadrian’s Villa can be reached by car via Via Tiburtina, by train from Termini station, or by metro.

A place where nature, art, and power merge, Hadrian’s Villa stands as a testament to the genius of the emperor who commissioned it, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in every facet of his cosmopolitan culture.