Casina delle Civette

The Casina delle Civette, or House of the Owls, is a unique and fascinating place to visit. Originally built in 1840 as a 'Swiss Cabin' by Giuseppe Jappelli for Prince Alessandro Torlonia, it was later transformed into a 'Medieval Hamlet' by architect Enrico Gennari at the behest of Prince Giovanni Torlonia the Younger. The house features stunning Art Nouveau stained glass windows, majolica decorations, and intricate stucco work. The building's distinctive feature is its stained glass, which was installed between 1908 and 1930 and represents a unique moment in the international artistic outlook. The house is a testament to the eclectic and esoteric tastes of Prince Giovanni, who loved owls and incorporated them into the decorations and furnishings. Today, the Casina delle Civette is a museum dedicated to stained glass and offers a glimpse into the lives of the Torlonia family and their love of art and architecture