Orange Garden (Savello Park)

The Orange Garden, also known as Parco Savello, is one of the most picturesque places in Rome, located on the top of the Aventine Hill. This green space offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, making it a must-visit for tourists and Romans looking for tranquility and beauty. The history of the Orange Garden dates back to the 13th century, when the powerful Savelli family built a fortress on the remains of a 10th-century castle belonging to the Crescenzi family. The Savelli fortress, with its massive walls, was an important defensive stronghold during the civil struggles of medieval Rome. However, in the 18th century, the structure fell into disuse and was largely demolished. The garden in its current form was designed in 1932 by the architect Raffaele De Vico, known for his work in creating public green spaces in Rome. The goal was to create a new belvedere that would offer the public a panoramic view similar to those of the Gianicolo and the Pincio. De Vico designed a symmetrical garden with a central avenue leading to a panoramic terrace, from which iconic monuments such as the dome of St. Peter’s, the Tiber River, and the Trastevere district can be admired. The name “Orange Garden” comes from the bitter orange trees (Citrus aurantium) planted in the park. These trees, which add a touch of color and a citrus fragrance to the environment, have been linked to a legend that San Domenico planted the first orange tree brought from Spain in the nearby monastery of Santa Sabina. It is said that Santa Caterina da Siena would pick oranges from this tree to make candied fruit to give to Pope Urban VI. At the entrance of the garden, in Piazza Pietro D’Illiria, there is a fountain composed of a Roman thermal bath basin and a monumental marble mask sculpted by Giacomo della Porta in 1593. This mask has had a tumultuous history, passing through various locations in the city before finding its final place at the entrance of the Orange Garden. Walking through the garden, you can admire the ancient apse of the Basilica of Santa Sabina and the remains of the Savelli fortress walls. The geometric layout of the paths and the variety of plant species, including cypresses and pines, create a harmonious and relaxing environment. The main avenue, dedicated to the actor Nino Manfredi, leads to the panoramic terrace, a privileged observation point to enjoy the view of Rome.