Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Criptoportico
Reached from near the Orti Farnesiani, the
criptoportico
is a 128m tunnel where Caligula
is said to have been murdered, and which Nero used to connect his Domus Aurea with the
Palatino. Lit by a series of windows, it originally boasted elaborate stucco decorations and
is now used to stage temporary exhibitions.
Orti Farnesiani
In the northwest corner of the Palatino the Orti Farnesiani are one of Europe's earliest
botanical gardens. Named after Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, who had them laid out in the
mid-16th century, they boast lovely perfumed hedges and shady pines. Twin pavilions at
the garden's northernmost point command breathtaking views over the Roman Forum.
