Tivoli, Hadriana's Villa and Villa d' Este

Well after my night of fritazzas and musica de italia, it was a good thing that I've mastered the art of expresso. I woke up bright and early for my trip to Tivoli, a hill town north of Rome. First we went to Hadriana's Villa, the largest preserved Imperial villa in Italy. The villa was built for Hadriana during the 2nd Century BC while he ruled Rome. Filled with large roman baths, courtyards and a large pool lined with greek goddess statues, it was quite impressive!

After this we drove into the town of Tivoli for lunch. I ate at one of the quaint outdoor cafes and enjoyed some divine mediterranean shrimp. After lunch we moved on the Villa d' Este which was the most impressive site I've seen in Rome so far. Resembling the beautiful gardens and landscapes I saw at Versaille (paris), this villa was truly an estate. Lush gardens went on forever in every direction we could see, filled with hibiscus, roses, honeysuckels, and lillys. Huge fountains flowed in every direction and the neatly trimmed hudges formed mazes through the courtyard. This is a lifestyle I could really appreciate!

Tomorrow I am heading to Lido di Ostia (the beaches of ostia) for some much needed R&R. Chau!