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ECHOES OF THE SACRED CITY
Rome
BEHIND THE DOORS OF A ROMAN PALAZZO
The cultural treasures of Rome as seen by a privileged few.
From the Vatican City's sacred marvels to the enchanting streets of Trastevere, and the Baroque splendours of Piazza Navona, experience the timeless allure of Rome. Local experts will reveal hidden treasures in private, and offer rare insights into some of the city’s celebrated artworks, shining light on the efforts of The Vatican and ambitious popes and cardinals to make Rome the artistic epicentre of the world in the 16th and 17th centuries. Glimpse the opulent lives of Rome's bygone patrons, walk in their footsteps and savour their stories over rare Italian wine.
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN ROME
A private chauffer waits at Rome Fiumicino airport for the journey to the hotel. Tomorrow brings an early start to visit The Vatican at dawn, so recommendations can be made for an early supper at an authentic local trattoria nearby.
DAY 2 - A PRIVATE VISIT TO THE VATICAN AT DAWN
As dawn breaks, a personal guide welcomes you to The Vatican Museums for an exclusive visit. Breakfast is served within the Vatican Museums before your privately guided tour through the hallowed halls of the Sistine Chapel. Continue your exploration with a private tour of St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, marvelling at the grandeur of Bernini's colonnades and the beauty of Michelangelo's cupola.
Later that morning, the chauffeur takes you to Janiculum Hill for sweeping views over Rome and then onto charming Trastevere. Stop at the Church of San Pietro in Montorio to hear the scandalous tale of Cardinal Innocenzo Ciocchi del Monte, adopted nephew and lover of Pope Julius III, who lies in an unmarked tomb in the church, and admire Bramante’s exquisite Tempietto, one of the most influential buildings of the Renaissance.
Spend the afternoon exploring Trastevere and return to the hotel by taxi, or on foot across the Tiber to the historic and lively square of Campo de’ Fiori for the evening. Wander past palazzi of leading Roman families, market stalls, boutique shops, bars and restaurants.
DAY 3 - BEHIND THE DOORS OF A ROMAN PALAZZO
Explore Baroque Rome, meeting your guide at the hotel, cover Piazza Navona with Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi with ground-breaking paintings by Caravaggio in the Contarelli Chapel, and the Church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola with spectacular illusionistic frescoes by Andrea Pozzo.
Finish the walk with a private visit to Palazzo Patrizi guided by Marquis Corso Patrizi. Explore the fascinating collection of art and artefacts at his family home as you listen to tales of infamous residents alongside a glass of wine from the Frescobaldi Estates. Spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure. A visit to the private art collection at Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is highly recommended. For dinner, we suggest a gastronomic rooftop dinner, experience the culinary heights of Rome at La Terraza with mesmerising views over the city.
DAY 4 - DEPARTURE
Return to Rome Fiumicino airport for the journey home.
THE STAYS
FROM £3,100 PER PERSON
For 4 days, based on two people sharing.
INCLUSIONS
Three nights at Hotel Vilon in a Charming Room, including breakfast
Expert guides
Dawn tour of the Vatican Museums with a guide
A private visit of Palazzo Patrizi with Marquis Corso Patrizi
Entrance to all museums and historical sites as mentioned
Private chauffeur transfers as mentioned
WHEN TO TRAVEL
April - June
September - November
EXCLUSIONS
Flights to/from Rome
Food and drink other than specified
ENHANCE THE EXPERIENCE
Further enrich your experience by indulging in a private lunch or dinner at Palazzo Patrizi.
Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Vatican Museums with a private visit.
Discover the majestic beauty of the baroque Palazzo Colonna during a private tour.
Gain privileged access to a renowned art restoration studio.
Embark on a guided exploration of the historic Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Elevate your stay with a luxurious suite upgrade at Palazzo Borghese.
EXPERT
DR GIULIA MARTINA WESTON
A specialist in Renaissance and Early Modern art, art historian, independent curator and advisor Dr Giulia Martina Weston can join you on your journey across the Sacred City, to unwrap the history of art and visual culture of the city.
