Villa Ada Savoia Bunker Reopens in Rome After Restoration Work

The Villa Ada Savoia bunker in Rome has reopened to the public following extensive renovation and safety improvements. This historical air-raid shelter was originally constructed between 1942 and 1943 as a protective space for the Italian royal family, the House of Savoy, during World War II. Located within Villa Ada park, the underground structure covers over 200 square meters and features seven rooms, including two main chambers, bathrooms, an antechamber, and service areas. After the war and the exile of King Umberto II, the site was abandoned until 2016 when the association Roma Sotterranea restored it under a concession from Rome's municipal government. The bunker closed again in 2021 when that agreement expired. Recent work by the Department of Environmental Protection, funded with 2.4 million euros from Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan, has stabilized slopes, restored access paths, and planted approximately 900 shrubs to prevent erosion and enhance biodiversity. A new collaborative management agreement now involves Roma Sotterranea and ASD Giochi di Strada. Guided tours are available for 13 euros, lasting about 75 minutes, and include historical displays and a documentary by Fabio Toncelli about the royal family during the war. The site will also host cultural events, artistic activities, and outdoor sports like trekking. Future plans include reopening the nearby Torre sul Colle Roccolo tower after safety work is completed.