After summer closures in July and August, the Serra Moresca complex, part of the Villa Torlonia Museums circuit in Rome, reopens Sept. 1.
The complex was designed around 1839 by Venetian architect Giuseppe Jappelli and is inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. The Greenhouse features an elegant peperino, iron and cast iron structure and beautiful, colorful polychrome stained glass windows. Even today, it is a place that evokes the atmosphere that welcomed the guests of Prince Torlonia.
Today’s layout of the Serra Moresca, based on a careful study of graphic and photographic documentation and on Giuseppe Checchetelli ’s descriptions of the places made in 1842, with the intention of faithfully restoring the original layout, aims precisely to highlight the original architectural features, which are of great suggestion and historical relevance. The main elevation is divided on the longest side into seven compartments, divided by pillars of graffito Albana stone with painted Moorish ornaments, with a hexagonal cast-iron column above. Each compartment is closed by large polychrome stained-glass windows with cast-iron framing in rich Moorish design. The ceiling consists of large painted wooden recesses and a transparent glass cover. The hall is now outfitted with large iron tanks containing different varieties of palms and other essences suitable for hot climates.
The Moorish Greenhouse complex is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry at 6:20 p.m.) until Sept. 30. From October 1 through March 31, Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last entry at 3:20 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.
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Villa Torlonia's Moorish Greenhouse reopens to the public |
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