46.Orange Garden – Giardino Degli Aranci
Explore the Tranquil Beauty of the Orange Garden in Rome (Watch Video Guide)
The Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) offers one of the best panoramic views in Rome. Situated on the Aventine Hill, this peaceful oasis is a perfect place to escape the noise of the city. Whether you wish to relax on a bench, enjoy the sound of music, or simply take in the view, this garden is the perfect retreat.
A Hidden Gem with a Rich History
Located near the Circus Maximus, the Orange Garden is one of Rome’s best-kept secrets. The locals affectionately call it “Il Giardino degli Aranci”. Its history dates back to the 13th century when it was originally part of a fortress owned by the Savelli family. In fact, remnants of the ancient Savelli Castle can still be seen today as you stroll through the garden, which became a public park in 1932.
The garden, adjacent to the beautiful Santa Sabina Church, was once a vegetable garden for the Dominican Order. Today, visitors can still enjoy the vibrant fragrance of orange trees as they take in the garden’s serene atmosphere.
A Scenic View Over Rome
From the Orange Garden, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Rome. The garden is elevated above the city, offering an unrivaled perspective of its skyline. On a clear day, you can spot landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance. The garden provides a peaceful escape for both locals and tourists alike.
As you exit the garden, you will come across a fountain on your right, featuring a mask of Neptune above it. The fountain, like many in Rome, was crafted from recycled materials, this time from ancient Roman baths. This small yet significant element adds to the garden’s charm and historical allure.
Discover the Church of Santa Sabina
While visiting the Orange Garden, be sure to explore the nearby Santa Sabina Church, one of the most beautiful churches in Rome. Built in the 5th century, this church was inspired by the architecture of ancient Roman basilicas. Its 24 columns, believed to be from the ancient Temple of Juno, are still well-preserved today.
The church features a unique cypress wood door, one of the oldest in Rome, carved in the 5th century. The door showcases detailed scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, offering a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of the period.
Inside, the church holds ancient treasures. Excavations in the 1800s uncovered structures dating back to 60 B.C., including walls, houses, streets, and remnants of a thermal bath. Every corner of Santa Sabina tells a story, connecting visitors to centuries of Roman history.
Don’t Miss the Miraculous Orange Tree
Before you leave, make sure to peek through the small hole to the left of Santa Sabina’s atrium. There, you’ll spot a special orange tree, believed to be the first brought to Rome in 1220 by St. Dominic. The tree is considered miraculous, as it has renewed itself over time and continues to produce beautiful oranges.
The Orange Garden: A Journey Through Time
Visiting the Orange Garden and Santa Sabina Church allows you to travel through centuries of Roman history. From ancient fortresses to miraculous orange trees, this corner of Rome offers a rich blend of nature and history, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Eternal City.
Useful Informations
- The Orange Garden is located on Aventine Hill, in the southern part of central Rome. The entrance is at Piazza Pietro d’Illiria, just a short walk from the Aventino area and about 15 minutes on foot from the Circo Massimo metro station (Line B). You can also reach it easily by taxi or by bus from the city center.
No, both the Orange Garden and the Basilica of Santa Sabina are free to visit. The garden is a public park open to all, and the church welcomes visitors during its regular hours. Donations are appreciated inside the basilica but not required.
- The best time is at sunset, when the view over Rome becomes particularly stunning with golden light illuminating the skyline. Early mornings are also peaceful and less crowded, perfect for photography or a quiet stroll.
Yes! They are very close to each other—just a 2-minute walk apart. We recommend visiting both in one trip. Start at the Keyhole of the Knights of Malta for the iconic view of St. Peter’s Dome, then walk over to the Orange Garden for a wider panorama of the city.
- Yes, but it follows religious schedules and may close during mass or private ceremonies. It’s usually open in the morning and early afternoon. Sundays are a good time to visit, but check local times in advance if you plan your visit around mass or want to avoid crowds.
- Yes, many walking tours of Aventine Hill include both the Orange Garden and the Basilica of Santa Sabina, often paired with the Keyhole and other hidden gems in the area. You can book private or small-group tours through local tour operators or platforms like GetYourGuide.
