This beautiful room is located in the Palazzo Massimo museum near Termini station. These garden frescoes once adorned an underground dining room in the country villa of Livia, wife of the Emperor Augustus. Dining was an important social and political ritual in Ancient Rome, so wealthy Romans like Livia wanted to have aesthetically pleasing dining rooms. This artificial garden creates the illusion of actually being outside, and contains a remarkable variety (and accuracy) of plants and birds. Flowers and fruits of all seasons bloom on these walls, creating the impression of everlasting growth and fertility – the optimism of Augustus’s reign.
This is one of my favourite artworks, and one of the most serene spots I can think of in Rome. It never fails to astonish me just how few people bother to visit Palazzo Massimo – it’s an extraordinary collection of ancient art, including famous works such as the bronze statue “The Boxer at Rest”, not to mention the busts, mosaics and frescoes. Still, their loss is our gain… You might well have Livia’s garden to yourself.
Find your way with 170 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Need a peaceful break during a busy day? Come and sit in Saba Caffè's garden and enjoy seasonal pastries and their menu from antipasti to pasta.
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La Norcineria di Iacozzilli isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a place to connect with history, culture, and the timeless joy of simple, delicious food.
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Emporio Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon offers specialty coffee and pastries, including vegan and gluten-free options. Grab a table and enjoy!
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Cozy vegan spot near Piazza Navona serving creative veggie dishes, organic wines & reinvented Italian classics. Try the chickpea and lentil "meatballs"!
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Caffe Peru near Campo de’ Fiori has true Roman charm with its eclectic decor and lively atmosphere. Grab an aperitivo and enjoy people-watching!
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Reserva Restaurante blends a chic and modern style with upbeat music, colorful cocktails, seafood and Argentine-inspired dishes in Rome’s historic center.
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At Vino e Vinili feels like you are hanging out at a friend's house as you browse through records, play your favorite tunes and chat with the friendly staff.
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"Gelateria Fassi" in Rome is a historical gelato shop almost all locals know. The atmosphere takes you back in time, and it's open 24/7, too!
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"Al Gallo Rosso" in Rome is loud, informal and sincere. The perfect pizzeria to take your friends for some arrosticini to enjoy the company of each other!
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"Parco della Caffarella" in Rome has been my gym, my mountain, my restaurant, my first date. I wouldn't be the same today without this piece of nature...
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"Caffè Ciamei" has the oldest coffee license in Rome and it's still one of my favorite places in town to get a cup. Try their cremina instead of sugar!
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170 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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