Praeneste

Praeneste is a garden loggia built between 1738 and 1740 by William Kent. It is constructed from rusticated limestone with ashlar dressings and ironstone used for the imposts and plinths, topped with a flat lead roof. The loggia features a 7-bay arcade with open-pedimented arches. At the top of the rear wall, a balustrade is adorned with terms of Jason and Hercules. Inside, the floor is stone-flagged, and the space includes quadripartite-vaulted bays that alternate with niches for statues. Each bay has a garden seat designed by Kent, featuring curved backs, turned legs, and finely-carved details. This loggia serves as an important 'hinge' in the layout of the gardens, guiding visitors past the balustrade with the Dying Gaul and offering a view of the arcade on the return walk along the river. The design is inspired by the larger terraced forecourt of the Temple of Fortune at Palestrina near Rome and is part of the landscape gardens created by William Kent around 1733 to 1740. Rousham Park, where Praeneste is located, is listed in the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission Register of Parks and Gardens at Grade I.