One of the loveliest things to do in Rome in May is to visit the Roseto Communale (the Public Rose Garden), overlooking the Circo Massimo. The 2.5 acre garden contains over 1,100 varieties of roses and is only open for the spring period when the blooms are at their best.
Every year the garden stages the Premio Roma International Competition for new varieties of roses submitted by growers from all over the world. This year marked the 76th edition, with 88 roses competing for the prestigious award, with the historic French grower Meilland sweeping the board in three categories out of four.
The Prize was the brainchild of American-born Countess Mary Gailey Senni, who supervised every phase of the creation of the Roseto and promoted it abroad. The competition was held regularly until 1940, when it was suspended due to the War. Sadly, the garden was destroyed during the conflict and the Premio Roma was only resumed in 1951 in the new part of the garden, which had been the old Jewish cemetery, subsequently transferred to Rome's main cemetery in Verano.
Guided tours can be arranged on request.
Photos by MSR
Info: Tel. +39.06.574.6810 rosetoromacapitale@comune.roma.it
