Villa Borghese Rome
In the 16th century a small vineyard was planted on the edge of the ancient city of Rome. A few years later Cardinal Scipione Borghese acquired the surrounding land to create a "pleasure palace". That land has now become Rome's most important and best known park. Still adorned by 16th century buildings, monuments and fountains, this 80 hectare refuge has become a favorite place for those seeking inspiration or reflection.

Unique in the world for its concentration of cultural institutions, the park contains five museums - including the Galleria Borghese - and is ringed by a string of foreign academies representing Romania, Egypt, Sweden, Denmark, Austria and Britain.

Of particular interest are the three "Secret Gardens". Originally planted in the 17th century, the gardens are laid out in a traditional, formal arrangement. Today they are brilliant displays of color of variety, but the history of the gardens is just as colorful. For a time pineapples were grown here to satisfy local demand for the exotic fruit. During the Second World War, the area was turned into a "war garden" to produce potatoes and cabbage.

Recent work - some 20 building projects - has highlighted both its artistic and environmental value, restoring Villa Borghese to its ancient splendor.