On the Aventine Hill, the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci, officially Parco Savello) offers from its terrace one of the widest views over Rome, from the Tiber to the dome of St Peter's. A few steps away, on Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, the keyhole of a gate frames the same dome at the end of a green avenue. Entry to the garden is free and it opens every day from 7am, with a closing time that varies by season. Allow an hour for the garden, the neighbouring Basilica of Santa Sabina and the keyhole.
Highlights
The Orange Garden
Laid out in 1932 by the architect Raffaele De Vico over 7,800 m², the garden occupies the site of the fortress built by the Savelli family in the late 13th century. An avenue of umbrella pines leads to the viewpoint, between orange trees that recall the tree under which, according to tradition, Saint Dominic preached at the neighbouring convent.
The Aventine Keyhole
Through its lock, the gate of the Grand Priory of the Order of Malta, on Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, reveals the dome of St Peter's, perfectly centred at the end of a clipped avenue in the Priory garden. The garden itself cannot be visited freely: only the view through the keyhole is open to everyone.
Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta
This small square was designed in 1765 by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, who also remodelled the church of Santa Maria del Priorato. Its walls are decorated with obelisks and military trophies in stucco, rare architectural works by the engraver.
The view from the terrace
The terrace overlooks the Tiber, Trastevere and, in the distance, St Peter's Basilica. At sunset, the low light picks out the roofs and domes of the historic centre.
The Basilica of Santa Sabina
Next to the garden, this 5th-century basilica has kept its early Christian layout, its ancient columns and a carved cypress-wood door. It is open to visitors Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm, and on Sundays and Mondays from 12pm to 7pm, except during services.
Infos pratiques
Tips
A queue often forms in front of the keyhole, especially in the late afternoon and at weekends: come early in the morning to look without waiting. For a photo, press your phone's lens against the keyhole. The fountain with a large carved mask on Piazza Pietro d'Illiria marks the main entrance to the garden.
How to get there
Garden entrances: Piazza Pietro d'Illiria, Via di Santa Sabina and Clivo di Rocca Savella, 00153 Rome. Metro B to Circo Massimo, then about 15 minutes' walk uphill. The keyhole is at Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta 3, about 300 metres from the garden along Via di Santa Sabina.
Opening hours
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