Ninfa Gardens has a long and fascinating history that dates back to medieval times. The site was originally home to the prosperous city of Ninfa, founded in the 8th century. Unfortunately, the town was destroyed in the 14th century as a result of fighting between noble families and remained abandoned for centuries. It wasn't until the 20th century that the Caetani family decided to breathe new life into these ruins, creating one of the most extraordinary gardens in the world.

The process of creating the gardens was led by three generations of women from the Caetani family, each contributing their unique input and vision. Thanks to their efforts, the ruins of the medieval city gradually began to be covered with lush vegetation, creating a magical landscape that today delights visitors.

Ninfa Gardens is a place where history intertwines with nature in a unique way. Walking through the alleys, one can admire the remains of medieval buildings - fragments of walls, towers and churches - which now provide a picturesque backdrop for thousands of plants. Among the ruins you can find old frescoes that have stood the test of time, adding an extra artistic dimension to the place.

One of the most distinctive features of Ninfa Gardens is the water system. The crystal clear Ninfa River, from which the garden takes its name, flows through the site, creating picturesque streams and ponds. The sound of flowing water adds to the site's tranquility and harmony, creating an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation.

The wealth of flora at Ninfa Gardens is truly impressive. A relatively small area of 8 hectares is home to more than 1,300 plant species from all over the world. Here you can find both local species typical of the Lazio region and exotic specimens brought from distant corners of the globe. Particularly impressive are the collections of roses, which during the blooming season turn the gardens into a true paradise for lovers of these flowers.

A visit to the Ninfa Gardens is an unforgettable experience that engages all the senses. Each season brings different attractions and sights here, making this place unique no matter when you visit. In spring, the gardens explode with the colors of flowering trees and shrubs, in summer you can enjoy the coolness in the shade of centuries-old trees, in autumn you can admire the golden and red colors of the leaves, and in winter you can discover the charm of evergreen plants and the rugged beauty of the ruins.

Tours of the gardens are guided only, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the one hand, the guides share fascinating stories and interesting facts about the garden, on the other hand, for those who prefer to explore on their own, this can be somewhat limiting. It is worth remembering, however, that this form of tour is intended to protect this delicate ecosystem.

One of the most magical moments at Ninfa Gardens is watching the sunset. The light filtered through the leaves of the trees creates an amazing play of shadows and colors, giving the place a fairy-tale feel. This is the perfect moment for a romantic stroll or a photo session.

For nature lovers, Ninfa Gardens is a true paradise. In addition to the rich flora, many species of birds, butterflies and other small animals can be found here. The garden is a perfect example of a balanced ecosystem, where nature and man coexist in harmony.

It is worth noting the practical aspects of the visit. The gardens are open only on selected days of the year, usually from April to November. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Ticket prices can change, so it's worth checking the official website of the gardens for up-to-date information.

When visiting, be sure to dress appropriately - comfortable shoes are essential for walking on uneven terrain. On warm days, it's a good idea to bring water and headgear with you, as part of the tour runs in full sun.

For those interested in history and art, Ninfa Gardens offers a unique opportunity to see how nature takes over the works of the human hand. The ruins of medieval buildings, overgrown with ivy and roses, create an amazing backdrop for photographs and inspire reflection on the passing of time and the power of nature.

The Ninfa Gardens, despite their charming and somewhat isolated nature, are relatively easy to access for tourists visiting Rome. They are located in the town of Cisterna di Latina, about 70 kilometers southeast of the Italian capital. It takes about an hour to reach by car, making the gardens an ideal destination for a day trip from Rome.

For those using public transportation, it is possible to take a train from Rome to Latina station, and from there take a bus or cab to the gardens. However, it is worth remembering that this option requires good planning and can be more time-consuming.

As for visitor reviews, Ninfa Gardens enjoys extremely high ratings. Based on reviews available online, the average rating is an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars, a testament to the exceptional nature of the place.

Many visitors emphasize the extraordinary beauty and atmosphere of the gardens. One visitor wrote: 'Beautiful, green, charming 👌💪 We were in July, only it was very hot 39 degrees🥵 Visiting at 12 o'clock in the full sun is not pleasant. It would certainly be more enjoyable in the spring🙂 '. This review highlights an important aspect of planning a visit - choosing the right time of year and day.

Another visitor shared his impressions: 'The place unforgettable was worth the train ride there from Rome. Although getting there without a car is not easy, because the train stops in a nearby town and then you still have to find a second means of transportation. It's worth going there in May, because everything is blooming and fragrant. It's just a pity that you can't walk the grounds alone, only with a guide who speaks Italian.... But I recommend it anyway'. This review underscores that despite some inconveniences related to access and the form of the tour, the overall impression is very positive.

An interesting note for dog owners is the possibility of visiting the gardens with a four-legged friend. One visitor wrote: 'Great place, worth a visit. You can visit them together with your dog. You enter with a group and a guide who tells you in Italian about the history of the garden. We didn't understand a word, but the landscape is so beautiful that we weren't bored for a moment.

The issue of the language of the guides is worth noting. Most tours are in Italian, which can be a bit of a handicap for foreign tourists. However, as one visitor noted: 'Toward the end we puzzled the guide and he told us the stories of the garden in English in a nutshell.'

All in all, Ninfa Gardens is a place that delights with its beauty, history and atmosphere. Despite some logistical challenges, such as limited opening days and the need for guided tours, the vast majority of visitors find it worth the effort. Ninfa Gardens offers a unique experience, combining elements of history, art and nature to create a truly magical place that lingers in the memory.