Considered the largest monumental park in ancient Rome, these gardens occupied a vast area of more than 25 hectares, covering the present-day Via Salaria, Via Veneto, Via XX Settembre and the Aurelian Walls, between the Pincio and Quirinale. Today, the Aula Adrianea, i.e., the only intact structure of the majestic gardens, has been restored and used as a space for events and concerts, although it retains in every way the classicism of the palaces of ancient Rome.
Rome’s largest garden: its history
The Horti Sallustiani, were built on land partly owned by Julius Caesar, which later housed the luxury residence by historian Gaius Sallustius Crispus around 44 BC and finally passed into the hands of Tiberius.
Famous not only for being one of the emperors’ favorite vacation spots, but also art mines. it was here that famous masterpieces such as the Dying Galata and the Suicidal Galata were found, now on display in the Capitoline Museums. Of the Horti Sallustiani, today only part of the nymphaeum and the Aula Adrianea remain, which are about 14 meters below street level. The remains, were discovered in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with the opening of new streets and buildings in the emerging Sallustian quarter.
From imperial residence to concert stage
Between December and February, the historic structure will host atmospheric candlelight concerts, part of the Candlelight series. Here, classically trained musicians will play in magical tributes to such great authors and composers as Ludovico Einaudi and Pino Daniele. The hall, filled with thousands of candles, will be transformed into the most atmospheric concert hall in Rome, with an inimitable intimate and historic atmosphere.