Fendi revives Renaissance jewel the Grotto of Diana at Villa d'Este  

On May 6, 2025 the Grotto of Diana, a jewel of the Renaissance nestled in the gardens of Villa d’Este in Rome, will reopen to the public after being closed nearly half a century ago.

This rebirth has been made possible thanks to the cultural patronage of Fendi, in partnership with the Autonomous Institute of Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este – VILLÆ.  

Closed since the 1980s, the Grotto of Diana has benefited from a vast restoration project that began in 2023. This meticulous endeavor has breathed new life into the magnificent architecture and interior decorations of the unique nymphaeum, preserving this heritage for future generations. In addition to major work on consolidating structures and painstaking restoration of sculptures and mosaics, a glass wall has been installed in the loggia to limit the impact of erosion.  

“The restoration of the Grotto of Diana at Villa d’Este is an act of love  for Fendi, embodying our commitment to Italy’s cultural heritage in a highly symbolic year as we celebrate our centennial. It is a fitting way for us to pass on a fragment of eternal beauty.” Silvia Venturini Fendi, Fendi Artistic Director for Accessories and Menswear. 

Constructed between 1570 and 1572, the Grotto of Diana expresses a perfect harmony between nature and architecture, art and myth. Inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses, it includes marine scenes, monumental caryatides, mosaics made with shells and symbols of the Este family. The path leads to a terrace with a stunning panoramic view of Rome and the landscapes of Lazio. 

"Restoring the Grotto brings new life to a magnificent place of contemplation and dialogue between past and present. Thanks to Fendi, this treasure has regained its captivating beauty and power to inspire wonder." Andrea Bruciati, Director of the Villa Adriana and Villa d'Este Institute.  

This initiative reaffirms Fendi's strong commitment to enhancing Italy's artistic and cultural heritage, continuing its longstanding engagement with the history of Rome and unwavering support for the arts and the preservation of invaluable heritage.