About this experience
In the picturesque Trastevere district hides a remarkable and little-known monument of the High Renaissance - the first villa in Rome. Transmitting the ideas of celebrating life and beauty, it is valuable because it allows you to study the masterpieces of Raphael Sanzio himself without crowds and queues in major museums. Here you will not find religious subjects - all the sacred art was left to the Vatican. But you will get acquainted with frescoes depicting mythological stories, read a map of the starry sky, learn what inspired the great masters, and even find Michelangelo's 'autograph'.
What to expect
Two Raphael's masterpieces
The celebration of the colors of life was gifted to the villa by Raphael, who worked here in two halls - he painted the ceiling with the story of Amor and Psyche in the form of an entertaining comic strip and depicted the triumph of Galatea. In the first hall, you will feel like you are in a peculiar gazebo, as the author intended. Examine the frescoes of leafy garlands with flowers, berries, and even vegetables. And through the panoramic windows, you will see a wonderful garden. We will take a close look at the moments from the story of Amor and his earthly love Psyche: from their meeting to the lavish wedding on Olympus. And then we will delve into the subtleties of another gem of the gallery, I will tell you about the master's inspiration, Michelangelo's visit, and his 'autograph' on the wall.
Map of the starry sky
Studying the ceiling of one of the halls, you will momentarily be transported to November 29, 1466, and see how the starry sky looked on that day - the day of the birth of the villa's owner Agostino Chigi. You will learn about the author of the fresco Baldassare Peruzzi and recall the mythological characters used to represent the celestial bodies. And in conclusion, you will visit the perspective room, painted as a loggia, where behind massive columns, you will have a view of the cityscape.
🍸 Having enjoyed the art and rejoiced in life with the heroes of ancient myths, you can continue the day in one of the beautiful places in Trastevere with a glass of aperitif.
Organizational details
Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price and are paid separately (6 euros/adult, children up to 10 years old enter for free).
Photos from reviews
Pavel
October 2, 2022
Marina appeared suddenly, like a kind fairy, carried us on the waves of her gentle, soft voice to Villa Farnesina and after two hours brought us back to earth somewhere in the street of Trastevere district. A wonderful tour with a great guide, definitely recommend. Marina, thank you, we really enjoy...
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Elena
September 8, 2022
Thank you Marina for the wonderful tour of Villa Farnesina - not the most touristy but definitely worth a visit place - and a walk around the Trastevere district.
