Not the usual Italy: Villa d'Este, Tivoli

Located just outside Rome, this Villa is considered to be a UNESCO heritage site. Commissioned by Cardinal Ippolito II d'Este, this Renaissance style place drew much of its inspiration (and "borrowed" materials as well) from the nearby Villa Adriana, the old summer home of Emperor Hadrian. Because of this, one can see many Roman elements, including the hydraulic system where instead of a man-made system, the people took advantage of the natural water pressure coming from the water source from the mountain. What remains astounding is that the same hydraulic system is still being used today in the villa.

This Villa also has quite an interesting background. After losing his chance at the papacy, Cardinal Ippolito d'Este was appointed governor of Tivoli. This estate has been with the d'Este family until it was given to Maria Beatrice, daughter of Ercole III d'Este, who so happens to be married to the Grand Duke Ferdinand of Habsburg. It was during this time that the estate was neglected and started to decay. It was only after World War I that the Italian state bought and restored the villa.

It is also important to note such important figures who created this magnificent structure. Some names include Livio Agresti, Federico Zuccari, Durante Alberti, Girolamo Muziano, Cesare Nebbia, Antonio Tempesta, and most importantly, during the 1600's, Gianlorenzo Bernini.

Personally, the most amazing part of the Villa is the garden. Practically a maze, the huge gardens boasts hundreds of fountains. Everywhere you turn, one can see a different kind of fountain. Even the railings of the staircases are fountains! And don't expect to see your typical, Central Park-type water structure. The fountains here can shoot water to such dizzying heights that one would simply just stand in awe, taking everything in. Some of the fountains found here are the Fontana del Bicchierone, Rometta, Hundred Fountains, and Fontana dell'Ovato. Additionally, a the most beautiful grotto dedicated to goddess Diana is found here and an interesting addition- a water organ, which plays music due to the water pressure- can be found in the Neptune fountain.

Though this estate was built during the 1500's, it is amazing how this Villa still remains standing. The frescoes are as vibrant as ever, and the fountains seem that they will never dry up. Though it is more than 400 years old, many people today, and most probably in the future, will still be able to experience the beauty and splendor of Villa d'Este of Tivoli.