The Serra Moresca complex
Amidst history, nature and faraway impressions, the Serra Moresca complex has been restored and is open to the public.
With its shining polychrome windows and elegant peperino, iron and cast iron structure, the Serra still evokes the atmosphere that welcomed Prince Torlonia's guests.
Immerse yourself in the marvellous architecture inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, to admire the fascinating play of light, the artificial grotto, the ponds and the collection of exotic plants!
Designed around 1839 by the Venetian architect Giuseppe Jappelli, the Serra Moresca compound in Villa Torlonia has regained its original beauty after two restorations. The first, between 2007 and 2013, in which the building was restored from a condition of severe deterioration to its original state, both in its structural and decorative parts. The second, which has just been completed, concerned further conservation work on the Serra, as well as the setting up and activation of the entire compound as a museum space.
Designed by architect Maria Cristina Tullio, these latest works were carried out under the technical and scientific direction of the Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali and executed by Zètema Progetto Cultura.
Based on an accurate study of the graphic and photographic documentation and on Giuseppe Checchetelli's descriptions of the sites, today's display of the Serra Moresca highlights its highly evocative and historically important original architectural features. The visit begins at the Serra, a peperino and cast iron structure amazing garden pavilion. Polychrome glass windows frame the internal fountain, now back in use, a collection of Palms, Agave, Pineapple and Aloe, plants and tree species compatible with the original vocation of the environment.
The tour continues through the Artificial Grotto conceived as the place of the Nymph (Nymphae Loci), with its beautifully lit remains, small waterfalls and ponds where water lilies and lotus flowers now come back to life.
It is a natural historical setting that should be admired along the tour route together with the Tower seen from below. An imposing construction characterised by large windows with cast iron frames and coloured glass hiding walls richly decorated with polychrome stucco inside.
To find out more you can read:
- The history of the complex
- Recovery and restoration work
- The exhibition project
The Serra Moresca complex is part of the Villa Torlonia Museums circuit.
For information on how to visit, see the page on Practical information and Tickets and audioguides.
In July and August, the Serra Moresca is closed to the public.
The Serra internal space and the adjacent external space can also host exhibitions, thematic fairs and other cultural events. It is possible to organise workshop activities or small entertainment shows in the adjacent open-air area of the Grotta.
