Holidays in Rome: A Magical and Enchanting Place — the Casina delle Civette in Villa Torlonia Park

Inside Villa Torlonia, one of Rome’s most elegant yet lesser-known parks, hides a place that enchants anyone who steps inside: the Casina delle Civette, or "House of the Owls". This secret corner of the Eternal City is the perfect destination for those who, during a Roman holiday, wish to experience the city from a more intimate and fascinating perspective—letting themselves be carried away into a dreamlike dimension where art, nature, and history blend in a truly unique way.

The Architectural Enchantment of the Casina delle Civette
The Casina delle Civette can be considered a visionary creation, originally conceived as a private retreat for Prince Giovanni Torlonia Jr., later transformed into a masterpiece of Roman Art Nouveau (Liberty style). Its design echoes Gothic, medieval, and even esoteric themes. Wandering through its rooms is like stepping into an artist’s mind: vibrant stained-glass windows, floral motifs, mysterious symbols, and owls peeking from every corner—not just in the furnishings but in the very name, now the emblem of the museum itself. The famous stained-glass windows, crafted by master glassmaker Cesare Picchiarini in collaboration with artists such as Duilio Cambellotti and Umberto Bottazzi, turn light into art, projecting colors and symbols onto the walls and floors. There is a constant interplay between interior and exterior, between dream and reality.

An Immersive Experience of Nature and Beauty
The setting of the Casina delle Civette—the lush Villa Torlonia Park—plays an essential role in the overall experience. Walking through its tree-lined paths and discovering the historic buildings scattered throughout the grounds enhances the sensation of being suspended in time, where even the hustle and bustle of the city seems to fade away. The museum is one of the few places in Rome where you can still savor beauty slowly, taking in every detail and letting yourself be moved by subtle, precious impressions. For photography lovers, it's a true paradise: every corner, every window, every angle offers a dreamlike composition, where light takes center stage, and the owls watch over in silence.

What to See at the Casina delle Civette
Among the must-see highlights are:
• The stained-glass windows, especially "The Fairy", "The Bat", and of course, "The Owl". Each piece carries symbolic and artistic meaning, telling a unique story.
• Interior decorations in ceramic and wrought iron, featuring floral designs, animals, and mythological figures.
• The Sala della Stufa, or "Stove Room", with Neo-Gothic elements that evoke a fairy-tale atmosphere.
• The outer garden, often overlooked, yet offering peaceful corners for quiet moments immersed in greenery.
Every visit to the Casina is a one-of-a-kind experience, enriched by temporary exhibitions and cultural events hosted inside: talks, art shows, and creative workshops for children and art lovers alike.

A Place That Completes the Soul of Your Roman Holiday
For those staying in Rome and wishing to escape the more crowded tourist spots, the Casina delle Civette offers a precious opportunity to discover a different side of the city. A quieter, more refined, more spiritual Rome. And at the same time, more emotionally engaging. In just one afternoon, you can be mesmerized by the beauty of its stained-glass masterpieces, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the park, and breathe in art and history with every step.

Do you want to stay in Rome?

For this location we recommend Hotel Oxford, the ideal starting point to discover Rome!