Civil wedding ceremonies can now be held at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, as well as the Sanctuary of Hercules Victor, in the town of Tivoli, north-east of Rome. The news follows an agreement reached between the Istituto Villa Adriana and Villa d'Este - Villae and Tivoli town hall, after numerous requests from couples to open the spectacular ancient sites to weddings.

The celebration of civil marriages and civil unions may be held between 10.00 and 18.00 on Thursdays and Fridays, so long as they do not clash with festivi or public holidays. Getting married at Villa Adriana and Villa d'Este will cost €4,000 for non-residents and foreigners, and €3,000 for residents in Tivoli and neighbouring towns.