Caprarola

Last week me and a few friends rented a car and made a day trip out to the tiny hill town of Caprarola, just north of the city. The main feature of the area is the Palazzo Farnese, which is spectacular for many reasons, but for me it is especially significant because there is a ceiling incredibly similar to my own in the Vatican. (Yes, I call it "mine".) I was out here three years ago, but wanted to go back and see the ceiling again now that I have a better idea of what I'm doing. So, we made a day out of it, and hit the baths in Viterbo afterward.

Our little Fiat Panda. It was cute, but totally gutless.


The Palazzo Farnese, designed by Jacopo Vignola in the 1550s. One of the most unique features of the palace is unfortunately not visible from this view...


...so here is an aerial view from google. The entire palace is shaped like a pentagon with a circular courtyard in the center. The palace sits atop a hill at the top of the city and completely dominates the entire town below. Definitely not the subtlest of statements.


View of the gorgeous spiraling staircase.


The astrological ceiling, painted by the same artist as mine a mere year earlier. At first glance they seem identical but there are several significant differences that I won't bore you with.


Behind the palace are extensive gardens and a small Casino (a small, day retreat).




Me, three years ago.


And me, now.








View of the town.


The smallest of vineyards. Enough to make a few bottles maybe?