Friday, June 18, 2010

Villa Gregorianna - A lovely hike






Open letter to Rick Steves. While I have listened to your radio programs, watched your TV show, bought your books and downloaded your pod-castes; I have found little on one of my favorite weekend hikes. Hiking Villa Gregoriana, in the Roman suburb of Tivoli is a great break from the intense touring of historic Rome. While this area was a favorite get away during Roman time it has remained a vital retreat from the hot Roman summers through all the ages since.

Pope Gregory XVI in 1830 authorized the building of a tunnel to redirect the Aniene River, which frequently flooded the town. At that time it was an engineering wonder, and interested tourists came to view the 160 meter waterfall that resulted in the river’s diversion. Hiking trails to the base of the falls provide a great family/friends/lovers hike. In 2003, the area was completely cleared of debris and junk that had accumulated over the years. The result is a beautiful park that the citizens of Tivoli are truly proud. Anyone coming to Tivoli to visit Villa d’Este or Haridan’s Villa should be encouraged to include this hike.

Included are some pictures from that hike!


No comments:

Post a Comment