A few kilometers from Rome there is a wonderful castle to be discovered. Bracciano Castle is a private historic home with 800 years of history behind it. During the visit, therefore, there is much to see. The large castle was built by the Orsini family in 1470 and was then purchased by the Odescalchi family, the current owners, in 1696.
The Orsini belonged to one of the most influential families in Central Italy; in fact, in Latium it is common to encounter historic residences bearing this surname. The members of this large family said they had mythological origins: they were descended from Ursus, who was suckled by a bear. At Bracciano in the late seventeenth century the Orsini family died out and the castle was purchased by Livio Odescalchi. This was an important figure at the time: a nephew of Pope Innocent XI and a descendant of Charlemagne.
When can the castle be visited?
Bracciano Castle can be visited daily and guided tours are provided on Sundays. Through an art-historical tour you can visit over 20 decorated rooms (there is also the women’s room), the Court of Honor, the precious collection, the busts of the twelve Caesars, and the ancient kitchens. Visitors can learn about the great people who built and ruled the castle. The story of a condottiere, the love between Paul Jordan and Isabella de Medici, the friendship between Queen Christina of Sweden and Paul Jordan II, etc.
The nice thing is that special tours are also organized. For children the one with the princess, for adults the tour with tasting that allows them to discover the Secret Garden and the wedding apartment of Paolo Giordano Orsini and Isabella de’ Medici (usually closed).
Where: via Giulio Volpi n.12 – 00062, Bracciano. Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost of the full ticket is 10 euros, reduced 8 euros, children from 6 to 12 years old 7 euros. Free for children up to age 5. The reduction is valid is valid for residents, college students with ID, military and law enforcement personnel with ID, and those over 65 (Tuesdays only).