Nemorense or Virgiliano Park

Located in the Trieste district, Nemorense Park is one of the green lungs of Rome. Also known as Virgiliano Park, it was designed by the architect Raffaele De Vico and inaugurated in 1930 during the period of the Governorate of Rome as a public area. Its name derives from the nearby the Nemi Lake, as it evokes images of ancient sacred groves; it is in fact a true work of naturalistic art inspired by and dedicated to the Roman poet Virgil, whose two thousandth anniversary of his birth fell in the year of construction of the park. In the park De Vico evokes the atmosphere of the poet's homeland by carefully choosing, and according to very specific schemes, the plants and buildings that were to embellish it.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Nemorense Park is the variety of its vegetation: there are cypresses, maritime pines, holm oaks, horse chestnuts and plane trees. The most peculiar element is the artificial lake which is located in the centre of the park, from which the Olive Fountain stands out, creating unique water features. The park also has numerous paths, ideal for quiet walks or jogging sessions; in fact, it is an ideal place for those who want to relax away from city traffic, practice outdoor sports or simply spend time immersed in nature.

In the Villa there is also a playground for the little ones, a paid electronic carousel and the new Caffè Nemorense built using an old chalet. This kiosk is much more than a simple refreshment point: it also acts as a meeting and meeting place; festivals, shows, book presentations and meetings with authors are periodically organised.

In 2020 the park was reopened following the completion of the of the redevelopment works.To eliminate situations of degradation, numerous interventions have been carried out, including: resurfacing of over 4,000 m2 of the paving of the avenues with gravel and cobblestones, overhaul of the water disposal system; cleaning of drains; pruning of all trees; vegetation reclamation; pond cleaning; restoration of the staircase towards Largo Volsinio; planting of new trees; demolition of illegal sheds in the former Bocciofilo Centre area; restoration of benches and installation of six new bins. Furthermore, naturalistic engineering interventions were carried out to contain the erosion of the steep parts facing via Panaro and via Martignano, while the Urban Decor Office took care of the erasure of the vandalism.

Once the works were completed, the Play Areas Office of the Environmental Protection Department was also able to intervene to redevelop the play area inside the park. The works led to the replacement of the anti-trauma flooring, the mobile bridge, the slide and the four wooden platforms. Furthermore, eight new swing seats were installed and new signage was placed.

Photo: Capitoline superintendency