4-hour tour with transfer
Partially accessible
kid-friendly tour
The majestic Odescalchi Castle, one of the most beautiful Renaissance mansions in Europe, lies a few kilometres north of Rome.
Built by the Orsini family in the Renaissance, the Castle looks like a fortress surrounded by gardens: you’ll be able to enjoy the unique and panoramic view of the lake. Six centuries of history told through ancient weapons, paintings, manuscripts, decorations and frescoes are on display in the castle, which was opened to the public in 1952 by Prince Livio Odescalchi IV.
The historical museum within the Castle has valuable artworks from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, including frescoes, army memorabilia, paintings, ceramic plates and original furniture. The tour is a unique opportunity to visit an original castle and an authentic residence where a lot of movies were directed (like the TV series Medici). A special itinerary will be dedicated to the secret apartments and to the secret garden.
Some of the most representative pictures of this tour
Discover the main stops of this tour
The kitchens were large as the cooks had to prepare meals not only for the family, but for all the castle staff, workers, and guests. The fireplace used to grill meat was large enough to cook an entire cow! Do not miss the chance to see what a Medieval/Renaissance kitchen was like, and where it was located inside the castle!
Inside the large reception halls lively decorations by the painter Antoniazzo Romano, precious frescoes by the Zuccari brothers, family portrays that tell the story of the noble Orsini family - rulers and lords of Bracciano - and the story of their guests, popes, kings and intellectuals of that times have been preserved. Find yourself face to face with beautiful historical items such as furniture, weapons and armor for a rare authentic and historical experience as well as glimpse into the lives of those who once lived in this castle centuries ago.
Another beautiful attraction of the castle is the bedroom of Isabella, Duchess of Bracciano during the 16th Century. The peculiar feature of the Red Room, as Isabella’s bedroom is also called, is the trap door hidden behind a small wooden door in a corner of the room.
The open-air courtyards, the great Court of Honor with its arches, the ramparts and the Secret Garden enchant guests with its breathtaking view over Lake Bracciano.
Some useful information for your experience
Expert and licensed guide, entrance ticket, private transfer, full on-site assistance, sterilized earphones (from 5 people upwards).
Suggested start time: 9.30 am.