These delightful gardens laid out in terraces on the side of the Palatine hill were created in the mid 16C. The Farnese's magnificent botanical garden, one of the richest in the world at that time, once extended across the flat top of the hill; entrance was through a monumental gate which now stands on Via San Gregorio. There is a splendid view of the Forum from the terrace where the aviaries stand, as well as from the Renaissance-style Teatro del Fontanone and the Casino del Belvedere.