Located in the middle of Trastevere, Rome's Botantic Garden, or Orto Botanico, was originally established in 1883 when the Corsini family donated its garden to the Italian government.

Now run by the University of Rome "La Sapienza," it hosts over 3,500 species of plants and includes a rock garden, green-houses, bamboo grove, Japanese Gardens and a "Scent-and-Touch" garden for visually-impaired visitors.

The gardens have changed little in the last 250 years. The Fountain of the Tritons was built around 1750 by Ferdinando Fuga. The Monumental Staircase, also by Fuga, dates from 1732.

From April to October the gardens are open daily 09.00-18.30 while from November to March the opening hours are 09.00-17.30. Entry fee is €8, reduced €4. Guided tours available in Italian for groups of minimum 10 but must be booked in advance.

For full details see website.