A companion to Roman Gardens: Villas of the Countryside, this extraordinary volume documents the traditions of gardens and villas within the city of Rome. Roberto Schezen’s exquisite photographs capture the atmosphere and lush surroundings of the villas, many of which are closed to the public and seen here for the first time.

The richest and most cultured cardinals and princes of the 16th and 17th centuries built urban retreats with elaborate gardens throughout the city. The area, featured in the texts of many ancient writers, has remained legendary. The luscious photographs highlight both the architecture and landscape; great artistic treasures as well as wonderful gardens with fountains and monumental sculpture are featured.

The 12 villas included are Il Palatino, Villa Chigi Farnesina, Villa Madama, Villa Lante on the Janiculum, Villa Giulia, the Casina of Pope Pius IV in Vatican City, the fountains of Vatican City, Villa Medici, Villa Ludovisi, Villa Doria Pamphili, Villa Chigi – Sala della Tebaide, and Villa Borghese. Marcello Fagiolo’s accompanying text traces the history of the Roman garden and the special conditions surrounding villas built in an urban context.