Hilltown Tivoli, now probably the most popular excursion from Rome, was once a favoured resort of the ancient Romans, attracted by its fresh water and sulphur springs, and beautiful countryside.
The temples that once covered Tivoli's hilltop are still visible in places.
Some are half buried in medieval buildings, others, such as the Temples of Sibyl and Vesta, inside the gardens of the Sibilla restaurant (on Via Sibilla) , relatively intact.
The town's most famous sight is the Villa d'Este, a sumptuous country residence created in the 16th century by Pirro Ligorio for Cardinal Ippolito d'Este from the shell of a Benedectine manostery.
It is known primarily for its gardens, steeply raked on terraces, and studded with spectacular, if somewhat faded and moss-hung, fountains.
Sights at a Glance:
Hadrian's Villa;
Villa Gregoriana;