`` Rome is not like any other city. It’s a big open air museum, a living room that shall be crossed on one’s tiptoes``, Alberto Sordi
On this tour of Villa Farnesina and Trastevere, you will visit the medieval neighborhood of Trastevere, one of the most vibrant areas in Rome, located on the west bank of the Tiber River, south of Vatican City. In fact, the word Trastevere comes from the Latin “trans Tiberim”, meaning literally “beyond the Tiber”. This part of Rome is famous for its narrow, winding, irregular streets, its bustling cafés and restaurants.
Despite being a major touristic destination, Trastevere has managed to preserve a very strong identity. Its cobbled streets and squares are loaded with charm and you will be surprised to discover that, outside the major squares, this neighborhood can be really quiet.
Embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history and art of one of Rome’s hidden gems, the Villa Farnesina. Built in the 16th century for a wealthy Sienese banker, Agostino Chigi, this magnificent villa is a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and decoration. The villa is adorned with frescoes by some of the greatest artists of the era, such as Raphael, Peruzzi, and Sodoma.
As you stroll through the rooms of Villa Farnesina, your guide will take you on a journey back in time, sharing fascinating anecdotes about the life and times of the villa’s former owners, the Chigi family, and the masterful artists who created its incredible frescoes.
Villa Farnesina is home to the famous Loggia of Cupid and Psyche, with its exquisite mythological paintings depicting the “Council of the Gods”. In the Hall of the Perspectives, Agostino Chigi held his wedding banquet in 1519 marrying his mistress Francesca Ordeaschi.
During the tour, we will also take you on a journey of discovery, covering the churches, squares, and rarities that have made Trastevere renowned with locals and tourists alike.
We’ll visit Tiber Island, where you will learn one of the most fascinating legends of this little island that seems to have the shape of a Roman warship.
Among the other sites visited on this tour of Trastevere, are two medieval churches, the church of Santa Cecilia and the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere.
The church of Santa Cecilia features a marvelous gothic baldachin and a breathtaking statue representing the body of Cecilia, a Christian martyr who lived in the III century. The church of Santa Maria in Trastevere is instead one of the oldest sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has marvelous mosaics dating from the end of the XII and XIII century.
Read more about Villa Farnesina in Trastevere in my blog article: https://www.seeromewithme.com/off-the-beaten-path-rome-villa-farnesina-in-trastevere/
✓ Tiber Island
✓ Church of Santa Cecilia
✓ Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere
✓ Alleys of Trastevere
✓ Villa Farnesina
- Tour duration: approx 2,5 hours
- Meeting point: at the Tiber Island outside the Church of San Bartolomeo all’Isola
- Only morning tours. Start time either at 9 or 9.30 (Villa Farnesina is not open in the afternoon)
- As during the tour, we will enter churches, remember that a dress code applies to all religious buildings: covered shoulders (a light scarf will do in summer) and no shorts or mini skirts
Admission tickets are not included. Ticket price: Adults: 10 € – Free : children under 10
- Tour for 2-3 people: 220 €
- Tour for 4-5 persons: 240 €
