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Our exploration of the villas of Rome continues with Villa Torlonia, about three-and-a-half kilometers from the Spanish Steps. Purchased in 1797 by Giovanni Torlonia, it was later converted into a monumental complex (the restoration work was carried out by the architect Valadier). It is one of the newer noble Roman villas, and has a special charm due to the originality of the English garden and an unexpected number of artistic buildings scattered throughout the park.
The villa became famous as Mussolini's residence; inside you can appreciate the lemon house and the Liberty architecture of the Owl House. Near this, the minicity Technotown is fun for kids with fake lava flows, and multimedia installations that explain how the news works and virtual tours of ancient Rome.