The Garden and the Mansion were built in the 16th century A.D. as a single-story loggia with open arches in the Italian-style garden commissioned by Duke Vicino Orsini. From there began the walk through the Park of Wonders, better known throughout the world as the Park of Monsters or the Sacred Grove. The first obelisk marking the start of the path—built of peperino stone, characteristic of the local archaeological landscape—stands tall amidst the greenery of our park. According to legend, Giulia Farnese, the duke’s wife, whom he loved dearly, is buried beneath it. In the hearts of every resident, everyone in Bomarzo knows “Il Giardino” and “La Dimora,” which have seen their share of ups and downs over time: it first passed from the Orsini family to the Lante della Rovere family, and then to Prince Borghese, who kept carriages and horses there and used the hunting lodge (a beautiful tower still standing on the estate).

THROUGH THE CENTURIES
Gradually abandoned by its noble owners, it became the property of the municipality and, in effect, belonged to everyone. The house underwent various additions and, over time, served as a tobacco drying shed, a children’s summer camp, and, little by little, was finally buried by brambles. In the 1960s, attorney Bruzio Pirrongelli purchased it and began its restoration, transforming this ancient tuff structure into the family’s vacation home. A cherished place, rich in memories and of inestimable value.

TODAY The restoration continues today thanks to his daughters, Simonetta and Cristiana. In 2013, “Il Giardino e la Dimora”—which had been a private home for forty years—was opened to the public for cultural tours, weddings, and short stays for guests who love nature, peace, and antiquity. The spacious grounds feature a large above-ground pool, which is a pleasant place to cool off during the hot months. The centuries-old trees and the beautiful, well-maintained garden—lush and blooming with flowers depending on the season—make the estate the ideal setting for relaxation and special events.
The interior of the house is impressive. On the first floor, there are two parallel, ornately decorated living rooms, a dining room, an old-fashioned kitchen, a bedroom, two bathrooms, and a storage room; upstairs, there are bedrooms, a panoramic living room, bathrooms, and the vast attic studio. The home is further enhanced by two large fireplaces, rugs, and fine furnishings. From the garden, you can enjoy a sunset with unforgettable colors that, as the Poet says, “touches the heart.”