Villa Ada park

Villa Ada, located in the Parioli district of Rome, is one of the largest urban parks in the city, covering an area of approximately 160 hectares. Also known as Villa Ada Savoia, this vast green oasis offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its forests, lakes, winding paths, and numerous historical buildings. The villa is named after King Umberto I’s wife, Ada Hungerford, and its history is closely linked to the Savoy royal family. The history of Villa Ada dates back to the 17th century, when the area was mainly used for agricultural purposes. In the 18th century, the Pallavicini family purchased the property and transformed it into a villa with landscaped gardens and structures such as the Belvedere and the Temple of Flora. In 1872, the villa was acquired by King Vittorio Emanuele II, who made significant improvements and expansions. The royal residence became a place of leisure and representation for the Savoy family until 1878, when it was sold to Count Giuseppe Telfener, who renamed it in honor of his wife Ada. The villa returned to the possession of the Savoy family in 1904, when King Vittorio Emanuele III purchased it again and used it as his official residence until the end of the Italian monarchy in 1946. During World War II, the villa was occupied by German forces and used as a headquarters. After the war, the villa was returned to the city of Rome and converted into a public park. Today, Villa Ada is a beloved destination for both Romans and tourists. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including walks, jogging, picnics, and sports such as tennis and cycling. During the summer months, the park hosts the famous music festival “Roma Incontra il Mondo,” which attracts artists and spectators from around the world. This festival, known for its inclusive atmosphere and outdoor concerts, makes Villa Ada a lively cultural center during the summer season. One of the most fascinating aspects of Villa Ada is its natural landscape. The park is characterized by a wide variety of flora, including cypresses, dwarf palms, pines, and metasequoias, some of which date back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the numerous paths that crisscross the park, discovering hidden corners and enjoying the beauty of nature. The artificial lake of Villa Ada is a perfect spot to relax, take a boat ride, or simply admire the scenery. Villa Ada also houses numerous historical and archaeological buildings. Among these, the most famous is the Bunker of Villa Ada, an underground structure built during World War II, recently restored and open to the public for guided tours. This bunker offers a fascinating glimpse into the recent history of the villa and its use during the conflict. Another point of interest is Monte Antenne, the highest point in the park, named after the ancient Roman settlement of Antemnae, located at the confluence of the Tiber and Aniene rivers. The remains of this settlement, dating back to a time before the foundation of Rome, provide a unique testimony to the ancient history of the region. Villa Ada is also a place of great importance for biodiversity conservation. The park is home to a wide range of animal species, including birds, small mammals, and insects, which find refuge in the various habitats present in the park. This natural richness makes Villa Ada an ideal place for nature lovers and those who wish to go birdwatching or simply immerse themselves in a natural environment.