The Orange Garden, officially known as Parco Savello, is one of Rome's most beautiful and lesser-known treasures. It's not just a simple green space, but a true stage where history and nature meet in a deep and silent dialogue.
As you walk under the ancient trees, it's easy to imagine the succession of eras that have left their mark here. Each tree, each stone in the garden has a story to tell, from the medieval events of the Knights of Malta to the quiet contemplation of the monks in their garden.
Beyond being a place of rare natural beauty, the Orange Garden is also an exceptional viewpoint. From its elevated position on the Aventine Hill, it offers a panoramic view of Rome that is hard to compare: a living painting of the eternal city, with its red roofs, majestic domes, and, at sunset, the sky tinged with fiery hues.
This garden, with its silence, invites reflection and inspiration, making it a favored place not only for tourists but also for artists and thinkers seeking a corner of peace to escape the daily bustle.
The History of the Orange Garden
Located on the picturesque Aventine Hill, the Orange Garden offers a window into a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries of change and transformation. Originally, this area was part of an ancient fortress belonging to the Savelli family, erected in 1285, a place of power and strategy during the Middle Ages.
Over time, the fortress lost its military function and, in 1932, the site was transformed into a public park, becoming a place of tranquility and beauty.
The name "Orange Garden" comes from the bitter orange trees that were planted here, which, with their fragrant fruits and white flowers, not only decorate but also symbolize the garden's rebirth. These trees, still today, are a draw for visitors from all over the world.
What to See in the Orange Garden
Belvedere Terrace
Belvedere Terrace is the heart of the Orange Garden and the perfect spot to admire the eternal city. Located at a high elevation, this terrace offers a breathtaking panoramic view that extends 360 degrees, embracing some of the capital's most iconic symbols.
From this privileged vantage point, visitors can admire a panoramic view of Rome, contemplate the magnificent dome of St. Peter's standing majestically on the horizon, and let their gaze wander over the characteristic roofs of Trastevere, whose textures and colors tell stories of centuries of urban history.
This enchanting place offers a unique visual experience, where the grandeur of Rome is revealed in all its splendor, making Belvedere Terrace a must-visit for anyone wishing to capture the most authentic and evocative essence of the eternal city.
The Basilica of Santa Sabina
Within the Orange Garden is the Basilica of Santa Sabina, a precious example of early Christian architecture dating back to the fifth century. This basilica, one of the oldest still standing in Rome, offers history and architecture enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the origins of Christianity.
The Keyhole of the Knights of Malta's Priory Gate
Moreover, the garden hides a fascinating surprise: the famous "Keyhole" of the gate of the Knights of Malta Priory.
Through this small hole, one can enjoy a perfectly framed and unexpected view of St. Peter's dome, creating a symbolic and suggestive image that connects the garden to the spiritual heart of the Vatican.
The Flora and Fauna of the Orange Garden
The Orange Garden offers much more than its famous trees laden with bitter oranges. This park is a true sanctuary for biodiversity, home to numerous species of birds that find an ideal habitat away from urban chaos.
The varieties of Mediterranean plants, with their aromatic scents and vivid colors, help to create a particularly serene and inviting environment. Shaded by tall pines and surrounded by bushes of rosemary and lavender, the quiet walks in the garden offer an oasis of tranquility, perfect for those seeking a moment of peace and reflection in the hectic life of Rome.
