An abandoned Renaissance-era palace in the shadow of the Colosseum is preparing to gradually open to the public after decades of closure, the Italian culture ministry said on Tuesday. Villa Silvestri Rivaldi, which had been in a state of neglect for 40 years, is undergoing a €35 million restoration, financed by the culture ministry, while the Lazio Region has committed to purchasing the 16th-century property for €25 million.
During a visit on Tuesday, culture minister Alessandro Giuli and Lazio governor Francesco Rocca presented the first areas undergoing restoration and illustrated the project for the rebirth of the historic complex. Located opposite the Roman Forum, the 7,000-sqm site - including buildings and grounds - contains faded mythological frescoes attributed to Perin del Vaga, precious floors and coffered ceilings.
