Villa d'Este

This splendid villa was built in a former Benedictine monastery by Pirro Ligorio for Cardinal Ippolito d'Este, the son of Lucrezia Borgia. The gardens have been rather neglected but the fountains are still spectacular and one avenue in particular has 100 fountains in the form of obelisks and ships with eagles (representing the d'Este coat of arms.) At the end of the avenue there is Rometta, a reproduction of the Tiberina island. Another work, which must have been extraordinary when constructed, is the Organ Fountain where the force of the pumped water through the pipes produced musical notes. Sadly, however, the fountain has not played for years. Diana's Grotto and the fine fountain of the Bicchierone by Bernini can be visited. On the lower level there are lovely gardens, fountains and a panoramic view. To reach Tivoli from Rome, there is the train or the bus from Rebibbia station, or Line B of the underground train.