Caffarella Park: The Roman Countryside Next to the Via Appia

Updated on October 8, 2026

Caffarella Park is a valley of countryside of about 190 hectares, tucked into the city between the Aurelian Walls, Via Latina and Via dell'Almone. It is one of the gateways to the Via Appia Antica and its regional park: meadows, flocks of sheep, ancient ruins, old farms and the Almone stream. Entry is free. The main path is a little over 6 km long and reaches the Via Appia; allow 1.5 to 3 hours for a walk, more for a picnic or a detour to the ruins.

Highlights

The Casale della Vaccareccia

The 16th-century farmhouse, flanked by a medieval tower, gave the valley its name: it belonged to the Caffarelli family. Around it the meadows are still used for grazing, and you often meet sheep.

The valley paths

Wide dirt or gravel tracks, mostly flat, used by walkers, joggers and cyclists. Sports equipment areas dot the park.

The Nymphaeum of Egeria

This decorated grotto, linked to the villa of Herodes Atticus, is one of the park's ancient remains, often associated with the nymph Egeria of the legend of Numa.

The Tomb of Annia Regilla

A small brick building in the shape of a temple, long called the "Temple of the god Rediculus", dedicated to the wife of Herodes Atticus.

The Church of Sant'Urbano

A former Roman temple turned church, in the upper part of the valley.

The Via Appia Antica

The valley leads onto the ancient Roman road: see our page on the Via Appia Antica for the catacombs, the Tomb of Cecilia Metella and bike hire.

Practical info

Tips

Entry to the park is free. No fixed hours are posted at the main entrance: some gates close at sunset, so leave before dark. Bring water and food: there are few shops in the valley. Wear good shoes, as the paths turn muddy after rain. The archaeological sites in the valley (nymphaeum, tomb) are often closed inside: be content to see them from outside, and check for any openings on site. The park combines well with a day on the Via Appia; see our guides Rome by bike and Parks and gardens in Rome.

How to get there

Main entrance via Latina, at Largo Tacchi Venturi, in the Appio-Latino district; other entrances via Via della Caffarella and Vicolo di Sant'Urbano. The main path reaches the Via Appia Antica, so you can do a loop or leave on the Appia side. Check the bus route on the ATAC app or Google Maps on the day of your visit.