Temple of Diana in Villa Borghese

A neoclassical jewel nestled between nature and myth in the heart of Rome

Inside the gardens of Villa Borghese, among tree-lined avenues and picturesque views, a small jewel of neoclassical architecture is hidden: the Temple of DianaMade in 1789 by will of Mark Anthony IV Borghese, was designed by Antonio Asprucci, with the probable collaboration of his son Mario. Guattani instead attributes the work to Mario Asprucci, who was only 25 years old at the time of its construction.

This is an elegant monoptero – a small circular temple without walls – composed of eight marble columns which support a dome. This is crowned by a decorative pine cone at the top.
The base, with four steps, enhances its monumentality despite its compact size.

A tribute to the goddess of the hunt

The name of the temple is linked to the statue of the “Diana of Gabi”, a Roman copy of a Greek original, which once stood in the center of the building. The work, restored by Vincenzo Pacetti, was however sold to Napoleon in 1807 and is today preserved in the Louvre of Paris. The Caristio marble base that recalls its presence still remains.

The interior decoration of the dome also pays homage to the goddess of the hunt. octagonal tiles In fact, they feature hunting motifs and scenes. All of this evokes the natural environment and the mythological nature of the deity.

From the eighteenth century to today

The Tempietto di Diana, besides being a refined example of Roman neoclassical style, represents one of the most evocative elements of the park. Restored in 1941 da Lorenzo Cozza, continues to adorn the Villa Borghese gardens today. It offers visitors a haven of peace and harmony, immersed in greenery and history.

The photo gallery aims to showcase the temple's architectural details and its interaction with the surrounding landscape. It aims to convey its grace and timeless elegance.