Ippodromo Roma Capannelle

In Rome, the first equestrian races of the modern era were held in 1844, thanks to Lord George Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield, who organised two days of racing in the area adjacent to today’s racecourse, which at the time was reserved for fox hunts. Some forty years later, in 1881, when racing was formalised and Italian race programs were brought into line with those of Europe, the first Capannelle racecourse opened.

However, the facility became a modern equestrian center only in 1926. Following the magnificent renovation carried out by the architect Paolo Vietti Violi, the racecourse became a true gem of engineering and architecture at the foot of the Alban Hills, set against the backdrop of the ruins of the Claudian Aqueduct and the Villa di Lucrezia Romana.

The racecourse covers approximately 140 hectares and comprises two areas set aside for stables, which can accommodate more than 800 horses, the gallop training track and the racecourse itself, where the races take place. The three elliptical racing tracks are situated opposite the grandstands: two are for gallop racing and one for trotting.

The complex can accommodate around 20,000 people and features a lawn area with fixed tables and barbecues, four grandstands (the Central-Weighing Grandstand, the Main Grandstand, the Finish Line Grandstand and the Restaurant Grandstand), hospitality areas, such as the Giardino and the Terrazza Derby (designed by architect Paolo Portoghesi), and facilities for children. In addition to equestrian events, the racecourse hosts prestigious music festivals, such as Rock in Roma, sporting events and exhibitions.

Owned by Roma Capitale and regarded as a “temple” of international horse racing, the racecourse resumed operations in September 2026 following the completion of restoration and redevelopment works (on the tracks and buildings), made possible by the collaboration between Roma Capitale and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry. Management of the racecourse has been temporarily entrusted to Zètema Progetto Cultura, an in-house company of Roma Capitale.

Discover the calendar of events.

Photo: Ippodromo Capannelle