Livia's Subterranean Garden Rome
Fabulous frescoes
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.
About this spot
Find your way with 163 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Rome
Booktique
Books & Gifts near Pantheon
Fun shop near the Pantheon with pop-art displays, Rome photography books, quirky home decor, and unique souvenirs with a local twist.
by
Sarah
O'Connell
Gelateria Fassi
A space for your dreams
"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!
by
Max
Giudice
Al Gallo Rosso
Where pizza becomes lifestyle
"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!
by
Max
Giudice
Parco della Caffarella
Roman countryside
"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...
by
Max
Giudice
Caffè Ciamei
Oldest license for coffee in Rome
"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!
by
Max
Giudice
Via dei Cappellari
Like in old Rome
"Via dei Cappellari" is a little side street that is completely reminiscent of the Old Rome, with its staying away from the logic of profit...
by
Max
Giudice
Porta s. Sebastiano
Like a Roman soldier
"Porta s. Sebastiano" used to be an ancient entrance to the city of Rome. Today, you can walk along the walls and enjoy the stunning views...
by
Max
Giudice
Cartolerie Internazaionali
Stationary/Art Supply
Cartoleria Internazionali, one of Rome’s oldest stationery shops, offers notebooks, pens & art supplies — a charming stop between Campo de’ Fiori and Trastevere.
by
Sarah
O'Connell
Caffe ai Banchi Vecchi
Coffee near Campo di Fiori
At Caffe ai Banchi Vecchi, start your day with coffee, cool off with Rome’s best shakerato, and end with a spritz at sunset in a charming piazza.
by
Sarah
O'Connell
Caffe Novecento
Cafe near Piazza Novana
Caffe Novecento near Piazza Navona with its Parisian decoration, offers sweet treats, teas, and light bites. It's perfect for a calm break in historic Rome.
by
Sarah
O'Connell
Rosso Eat Drink Stay
Restaurant by Circo Massimo
Rosso Eat Drink Stay near Circo Massimo serves brunch to dinner with Italian flair, a bohamian vibe, and must-try fries. Try it with dessert or limoncello!
by
Sarah
O'Connell
ArtPeal
Local T-shirts and Accessories
Near the city center, ArtPeal sells handmade pop art–inspired pieces; funky bags, painted shoes, and playful shirts. So much better than regular souvenirs!
by
Sarah
O'Connell
Heading to Rome?
163 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 163 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Rome
Get to know our other Spotters from Rome
As featured on:
