Inside Villa Torlonia park in Rome, Casina delle Civette is a small house-museum known as the House of the Owls. Its unusual mix of cottage and castle-like details includes loggias, porticos, turrets and stained-glass windows with animal figures. Inside, the collection and exhibits trace the character of this distinctive building. It is a quieter stop for visitors interested in decorative art and architecture, set apart from Rome’s busiest sights. Pair the visit with a walk through the park and consider a multi-site ticket if you plan to see its other buildings.
A house with changing forms
Casina delle Civette began as a retreat from the formality of Villa Torlonia’s main villa. The building developed through a series of additions, giving it an unusual character that combines cottage-like and castle-like elements with Art Nouveau decoration.
Villa Torlonia was home to the Torlonia family and later served as a state residence for Mussolini from the 1920s onward. The park also contains other museums and buildings, so the Casina can form part of a longer visit to the grounds.
Details to look for
The exterior has turrets, loggias and porticos, alongside twisting decorative details. Inside, the stained glass is a central part of the visit: some windows show animal figures, including owls that connect with the house’s name. The museum’s exhibits introduce the building and its history.
The grounds around the house include bamboo trees and quiet park areas. A multi-site entrance ticket may suit visitors planning to see more of Villa Torlonia’s buildings; check the current ticket and Rome MIC card arrangements before visiting.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Casina delle Civette?
It is in Villa Torlonia park at Via Nomentana 70 in Rome.
What can you see at Casina delle Civette?
The house-museum has stained-glass windows with animal figures, distinctive architectural details and exhibits about the building.
Can you visit other Villa Torlonia buildings with the same ticket?
A multi-site entrance ticket is suggested for seeing the park’s other buildings. Check the current ticket options before your visit.
