The Opening of Mussolini’s Bunker at Casino Nobile in Villa Torlonia
In April, a hidden gem in Rome was unveiled to the public – Mussolini’s bunker under Casino Nobile in Villa Torlonia. This restored armored bunker, built during World War II for Mussolini’s survival, provides visitors with a unique opportunity to travel back in time and experience what it was like to endure allied bombings more than 20 feet underground.
Casino Nobile
The bunker was one of three shelters constructed, with the final one being unfinished before it could be utilized by Mussolini and his family. The first shelter, located under a man-made lake called “del Fucino”, previously served as a wine cellar for the Villa. Following safety concerns, the decision was made to repurpose the old kitchen space under Casino Nobile as an air raid shelter.
Historical Pictures
The shelter, primarily intended as an anti-aircraft shelter rather than a bomb shelter, was built 20 feet underground in Casino Nobile. Reinforced with 120 centimeters of concrete and equipped with an air purification system, the bunker was believed to withstand allied bombings, although this theory was never put to the test.
Where In Rome Did Mussolini Live?
Benito Mussolini resided in Villa Torlonia in Rome, which was owned by the Torlonia banking family. Rented to Mussolini for a symbolic sum of 1 Lira per year, the Villa served as his state residence. Mussolini kept state visits separate from family matters, limiting the number of official visits to his home.
Who Owned Villa Torlonia?
Previously owned by the Pamphili family in the 17th and 18th centuries, Villa Torlonia underwent significant transformations under the ownership of Giovanni Torlonia. The property transitioned from a rural residence to a sprawling residential complex featuring imaginative constructions and exotic landscaping.
Where Is Mussolini’s Bunker?
Mussolini’s Bunker is located 20 feet beneath Casino Nobile in Villa Torlonia. While the Villa is now more of a park, visitors can access the bunker from the main entrance on via Nomenata or through smaller entrances around the park’s perimeter.
How To Get Mussolini’s Bunker Tour Tickets
Guided tours are the only way to access the bunker, with both Italian and English language options available. English tours are held once a week on Saturdays at 11:00 AM. While tickets can be purchased on-site, it is recommended to buy them online in advance due to the tour’s popularity.
Ticket Price Details
TicketsPriceAdditional Presale FeeFull Guided Tour€ 12,00€ 1,00Reduced – 6-17 Years Guided Tour€ 6,00€ 1,00Reduced – Person With Disabilities Guided Tour € 6,00€ 1,00Reduced – MIC Card Holders Guided Tour € 6,00€ 1,00Reduced – Companion Person With Disabilities Guided Tour€ 6,00€ 1,00
Guided Tour
The guided tour lasts approximately 50 minutes and provides a unique experience for visitors. However, the site’s conditions require attendees to follow certain guidelines and recommendations regarding attire, mobility, and behavior during the tour.
For a detailed experience of Mussolini’s Bunker, visitors can expect engaging video presentations, historical insights, and artifacts that bring the bunker’s history to life.
The Fascist Era in Rome
Exploring sites related to Mussolini and the Fascist era in Rome can evoke mixed emotions. While some may prefer this chapter of history to fade away, others believe in the importance of understanding and accessing historical sites, such as Mussolini’s Bunker, to reflect on past events and prevent their recurrence.
Despite differing opinions, the historical significance and educational value of sites like Mussolini’s Bunker are worth the visit. So, if you find yourself in Rome, consider adding this unique attraction to your itinerary.
