Villa Lante
The perspective garden of Villa Lante in Bagnaia, a hamlet of Viterbo, is one of the most famous Renaissance gardens, extending over about four hectares spread over three main terraces. This garden is the most visited in Tuscia, with about 85,000 visitors a year.
Its history begins in the late 15th century with the creation of the “barco di Bagnaia” by the bishop of Viterbo, Raffaele Galeotti Sansoni Riario, nephew of Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere. In 1505, the diocese of Viterbo passed to his nephew Ottaviano Riario, who had the original core of the villa, the hunting lodge, built.
The overall design of the villa, as we know it today, was carried out between 1568 and 1578 at the behest of Cardinal Giovan Francesco Gambara, with input from hydraulics expert Tommaso Ghinucci.
Later, the villa came under the control of Cardinals Federico Cornaro and Alessandro Peretti Montalto.
The current name “Villa Lante” dates back to the 17th century, when it was granted to the Lante della Rovere family by Pope Alexander VII. In 1971, the villa was acquired by the Italian state.
The garden is a marvel of monumental fountains and ancient trees, expressing the contrast between wild nature and nature shaped by man. The villa is also famous for its artistic decorations, with frescoes and sculptures by famous Renaissance artists.
Opening Hours.
Monday
Closed
January - February
8:30 - 16:30
March
8:30 - 17:30
April 1-15
8:30 - 18:30
April 16-September 15
8:30 -19:30
September 16-October 31
8:30 - 18:30
November - December
8:30 - 16:30
Garden opening hours
Monday
Closed
Tuesday - Sunday
8:30 - 19:30
Rates
Garden
Free
Normal
8 €
18-25 years old
2 €
