Villa d'Este

     One afternoon, some friends and I took a short train ride from Rome to Tivoli.  Villa d'Este, a beautiful 17th century home and garden, is located there.  It was commissioned by Cardinal Ippolito II d'Este, the grandson of Pope Alexander VI.  It is a wonderful example of an Italian Renaissance garden.  It is filled with beautiful fountains, pools, and troughs.  More about Villa d'Este

The Fountain of Neptune is easily the most impressive fountain in the garden.  With its Roman architecture, cascading waterfalls, and jet fountains it is incredibly beautiful.  Leading up to the Fountain of Neptune there are three gorgeous reflection pools.

  The Oval Fountain is the second biggest fountains in the garden. 

The trees were exotic and some were big enough to get inside! 

Many of the walkways were lined with bushes taller than me. 

The railings on one of the staircases was a beautiful cascading trough.

  

 The One Hundred Fountains is one long piece made up of one hundred different fountains.  Many of the fountains are faces like this one.

Villa d'Este in Tivoli is definitely the most incredible garden I've ever seen.  The architecture, fountains,  and sweeping view are amazing.  The peaceful atmosphere makes visiting here a wonderful experience.  If you're ever near Tivoli, you have to visit the incredible Villa d'Este!