Art, Antiquities & Architecture: Exploring Villa d’Este and the Vatican Museum

Kate Johanns, National Chair, Public Relations and Media Committee

November 8, 2023

The Eternal City’s art and architecture are legendary, and we were fortunate Tuesday to explore both at some of Italy’s most breathtaking sites, including the grottoes and fountains at the Villa d’Este. Following an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, it was my pleasure to host a special dinner in the Cortile della Pigna—the “Pinecone Courtyard,” the main courtyard of the Vatican—as we reaffirmed the ties of our DAR friendship under the Italian stars.

—Pamela Wright, President General

The rain didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits during another day of unforgettable adventures in Rome and its surrounding areas. We began with a tour of the Villa d’Este in Tivoli. This UNESCO World Heritage site features a 16th-century estate famous for its Renaissance gardens. Although the property has changed hands a number of times during its history, it underwent a major restoration in the 19th century, attracting artists and musicians, including Hungarian composer Franz Liszt. Today, visitors from around the world come to tour the beautiful gardens at the Villa d’Este and admire the dozens of unique fountains powered by gravity.

After a free afternoon, we gathered for a special private after-hours tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. The quiet solitude was the perfect backdrop for admiring the breathtaking work of Michelangelo and exploring gallery after gallery filled with awe-inspiring art and antiquities.

Finally, our President General hosted a special “apericena”—a light buffet dinner—for our members and guests at La Pigna, also known as the Courtyard of the Pinecone, which is the main courtyard of the Vatican. It was truly a day to remember.

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