Location, Location, Location
1.Marco Simone is situated about a 30 minute drive from Rome’s city center on hilly terrain on a stunning 350-acre estate bordered by an 11th century castle. The course was named after the restored castle, Marco Simone, which was once home to Italian fashion designer Laura Biagiotti in the 1970’s.
Design Artistry
2. The 7,268 yard, par 72 Marco Simone was originally designed by Jim Fazio and David Messacane in the late 1980s. European Golf Design’s Dave Sampson performed the redesign with Jim Fazio II to elevate the layout to Ryder Cup standards. Marco Simone was the venue for the 1994 and 2021 Italian Open Championship.
Drama, Drama, Drama
3. There are lots of high risk/high reward opportunities throughout the parkland course, especially on the final five holes. One of the most intriguing holes is the downhill, driveable 352 yard, par 4 no. 16, which has a water hazard on the right side of the green to gobble up errant tee shots. The finishing hole, a 626 yard, par 5 will provide more than a few dramatic moments as it is reachable in two for the power hitters. Click here for hole-by-hole description.
Magnificent Views
4. From a spectator standpoint, the best holes to view the action are around the 12th green, fairway of 13th hole, 15th green and 16th tee.
Spectacular Setting
5. Marco Simone’s hilly personality presents natural viewing areas throughout the course, which can accommodate up to 50,000 spectators. From several points on the course, players and spectators are afforded views of Saint Peter’s Basilica. In addition, there is an ancient Roman villa on the course.
