One of the loveliest views over the city can be found in an unimposing Garden of Oranges,  high up on the Aventine. As you make your way from the Mouth Of Truth to the secret keyhole at the Villa del Priorato dei Cavalieri di Malta, you can find this unexpected gem of a garden skulking quietly behind ancient walls.  Around the corner a graceful archway afforded a glimpse of the gardens beyond.

In summer the gardens are host to a variety of outdoor theater productions and a popular picnic spot, but in the off-season it is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of big city life. It is the perfect spot to go for a wander, take in the view and maybe read a book underneath one of those glorious orange trees.

If you fancy a wander through the orange grove next time you’re in Rome, you can find it on the Via di Santa Sabina on the top of the Aventine Hill. It is open from 7am until sunset.