The namesake and must-see attraction at Villa Borghese Gardens is the Borghese Gallery. The property was the extravagant passion of Cardinal Scipione Borghese (1577 to 1633). In 1613, he commissioned Flaminio Ponzio to design Villa Borghese Pinciana, also called Casino Nobile. Rumors claim the construction, plus the cardinal’s lavish love of art, were secretly funded by the papal government. These became the foundation of Galleria Borghese when it opened in 1903. The museum exhibits artwork – many considered masterpieces – from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Have fun exploring the 20 opulent rooms decorated with carved marble and fresco ceilings.
