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Castello Ruspoli: A Renaissance Jewel in Vignanello

Discover Castello Ruspoli: A historic castle with stunning Renaissance gardens in the heart of Vignanello, near Rome.

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Castello Ruspoli, located in Vignanello, is a stunning castle with a rich history dating back to the 9th century. Originally a Benedictine monastery, it transformed into a noble residence in the 16th century and is still owned by the Ruspoli family. Its magnificent Renaissance garden, designed in 1611, is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

A brief summary to Castello Ruspoli

  • Friday 2:40 pm-5:45 pm
  • Saturday 9:40 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:40 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season, as the number of participants for each tour is limited.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the gardens and castle interiors.
  • Check the opening hours and guided tour schedules, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider visiting in the spring or autumn for pleasant temperatures and mild weather.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Roma Termini Rail Station, take a train to Orte. Then, take a COTRAL bus from ORTE | Stazione FS # f1703 to VIGNANELLO | Stazione Via Bracci # f1888. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs between €6 and €45. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the castle.

  • Driving

    From Rome, drive along the A1 highway and exit at Orte. Continue towards Vasanello and then Vignanello. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. Parking is available at the castle.

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Discover more about Castello Ruspoli

Castello Ruspoli, a magnificent manor house, stands in the heart of Vignanello, a charming town in the province of Viterbo. This historic castle boasts a rich history, with its origins as a defensive fortress in 847. It was later converted into a Benedictine monastery and served as such until 1081. Over the centuries, the castle was the subject of disputes among powerful families until Pope Clement VII granted it to Beatrice Farnese in 1531. In 1704, the Ruspoli family acquired the castle, which they still own and use as their summer residence. The castle's transformation into a noble residence is credited to Ortensia Marescotti, who maintained the original cliff fortification's characteristics. The design of the Renaissance garden is attributed to Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, a renowned architect, and was commissioned by Ottavia Orsini in 1611. The garden is divided into twelve sections, adorned with laurel, box, myrtle, and viburnum hedges, and features a central fountain. Visitors can explore the castle's chapel, dedicated to a Ruspoli family saint, and the armoury on the ground floor. The first floor showcases rooms with original 17th and 18th-century furnishings, frescoes, and family portraits. The Ruspoli family has a fascinating history, with connections to popes, commanders, ambassadors, and cultural figures. The castle has also hosted notable personalities like Fellini and Salvador Dalí. Today, Princesses Claudia and Giada Ruspoli own the castle and continue to preserve its legacy.

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