Hadrian's Villa

Hadrian built this from around 118 over some one hundred and twenty hectares, larger than many contemporary towns, and it functioned as the seat of government when he was there. He had travelled the empire more than any emperor before him, and the villa quotes what he saw: the Canopus, a long pool with a colonnade and a domed dining hall, recalls a canal in Egypt; other structures carry Greek names. The Maritime Theatre is a circular island surrounded by a moat with a retractable bridge, apparently a private retreat. Much of the marble and sculpture was carted off in the Renaissance, some of it into Villa d'Este.

What you actually see

• The Canopus - a long pool with colonnade and statues, recalling Egypt.
• The Maritime Theatre - a moated circular island with a drawbridge.
• The Great Baths - vaulted bath halls standing to considerable height.
• The scale - a hundred and twenty hectares of imperial estate.

When to go

April to June and September to October; the site is large, open and hot in summer with little shade. It closes Mondays in some seasons. Allow three hours minimum.

Honest expectations

The site is very large and much of it is foundations; a map or guide matters. Sculpture and marble were removed centuries ago and are in museums elsewhere. Shade is scarce.

Nearby

Villa d'Este is up in Tivoli; Rome lies west.