The first weekend of spring marks the return of the Italian Environment Fund’s major festival. Across Italy, over 700 sites will open to the public.
In Rome, the event takes on an almost solemn character, blending the grandeur of institutions with the secret charm of international academies. Participating means not only enjoying beauty, but actively contributing to the preservation of our landscape through a voluntary donation.
What to see in Rome
This year, the doors of ministerial and judicial buildings of immense architectural value will be open to the public.
- Ministry of Education and Merit: located in the heart of Trastevere, this imposing building is a veritable art gallery. Visitors can admire the monumental staircase, the frescoed corridors, and the reception halls that chronicle the evolution of the Italian school system. Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission). No reservation required.
- Supreme Court of Cassation (Il Palazzaccio): often viewed with awe by Romans due to its imposing presence on Piazza Cavour, the courthouse reveals its courtyards, solemn courtrooms, and rich sculptural decoration. Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Admission without reservation.
- Palazzo Corrodi: a former complex of artists’ studios near Piazza del Popolo, pivotal to the history of radio and cinema. (Admission reserved for FAI members).
- Palazzo della Cancelleria: a Renaissance masterpiece. The tour includes the famous Hall of the Hundred Days (frescoed by Vasari) and the Chapel of the Pallium.
- Royal Academy of Spain: a must-see stop to visit Bramante’s Tempietto. The exceptional new feature is access to the crypt (where tradition places the martyrdom of St. Peter) and to the terrace with a 360° view of the city.
- Villa Lante: designed by Giulio Romano, it is now home to the Finnish Institute. It is a place of absolute peace, famous for its frescoes and the loggia that seems to hover over Rome. Admission reserved for FAI members.
- Villa Spada: home to the Irish Embassy. A 17th-century noble mansion where Luciano Manara died. The tour includes the gardens and state rooms. Advance reservations are required.
Practical information for visiting Rome
To make the most of your weekend, keep these tips in mind: entry with bulky bags or helmets is strictly prohibited. Travel light.
FAI Membership: If you want to visit Palazzo Corrodi or Villa Lante, membership is required. You can sign up online or directly on-site to avoid lines and support the Foundation. Sites like the Palazzo della Cancelleria (famous for Vasari’s Hall of the Hundred Days) tend to fill up quickly; try to arrive early in the morning.
