The botanical garden of Europe
Caprino Veronese 37013
Review © 2007, Wcities
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The botanical garden of Europe |
Via Giovanni XXIII, 1 Caprino Veronese 37013 |
Baldo Mountain rises up between Lake Garda and the Lagarina Valley. During the last Ice Age, a watershed was created on its summit by the ice which appeared on the mountains, where various forms of plantlife began to grow. They then adapted to the rise in temperature when the ice melted. When the large Garda basin was formed, the side of the mountain that faced it underwent climatic changes which affected the vegetation and modified it to suit a Mediterranean climate. For this reason, the mountain is home to both olive groves and edelweiss, as well as hundreds of other types of plants, both coastal and alpine. It is possible to climb Baldo Mountain from different directions and in different ways. The easiest way is by cable car from Malcesine, and the most evocative way is to go up by car towards Lumini and Prada, and then to follow the military track in the Trovai Valley. From here, the path leads towards Telegrafo Peak (2110m high, it is an area full of interesting phenomena brought about by water erosion: 'campi carreggiati') and towards the glaciers ('circhi glaciali'). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gianluca |
 Photo: Laurie Lopes |
 Photo: spartacry |
Ecological zoo |
1 Piazza del Giardino Zoologico Rome, Rome 00197 +39 6 360 8211 http://www.bioparco.it/forma/b... info@bioparco.it |
This used to be a zoo, but has now become the Bioparco. With only a few cages, the goal is to create an environment that is as close as possible to the animals' natural habitat. Here children can learn about where and how animals really live. Admission: Eur6.50 for children (3-12yrs) & Eur8.50 adults. Free entrance for children under 3, adults over 60 and the disabled. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giampiero Passini |
 Photo: oxyuranus78 |
 Photo: °Carla° |
 Photo: Giampaolo Cianella |
 Photo: Diana |
 Photo: Marco Nanni |
 Photo: Luca A. Folino |
 Photo: becth |
 Photo: Anna Rita Chiappini |
 Photo: Simonluca |
 Photo: Fabio De Angelis |
 Photo: massimo cervellini |
 Photo: alxbosshog |
 Photo: Saddie7 |
 Photo: Daniele Olmisani |
 Photo: Marco La Montagna |
A haven south of the Arno |
Piazza de` Pitti Florence |
To escape the crowds and late summer heat on the Florentine tourist trail, head south of the river Arno to the calming and charming environs of the Boboli Gardens. This wonderful retreat was laid out by the Medici after they bought the Palazzo Pitti in 1549 and they were opened to the public in 1766. As well as formal gardens there are wilder groves of cypress and ilex and many fine statues. At the summit of the Forte di Belvedere there is an open area where you can sun yourself and relax whilst enjoying the stunning views of the city and Tuscan countryside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katie Phelps |
 Photo: Paula Martin |
 Photo: Monique Daigle |
 Photo: darks2007 |
 Photo: David Rizzio |
 Photo: Mrs.Catman |
 Photo: Anna Fraser |
 Photo: Blondi  |
 Photo: DV & BV |
 Photo: Adam McGale |
 Photo: mcloud1 |
 Photo: Keshan Gunasinghe |
 Photo: Erik Brown |
 Photo: ply&burl |
 Photo: Eric Martin |
 Photo: Kevin Simpson |
 Photo: taratara97 |
6000 different kinds of plants! |
Via Pier Antonio Micheli, 3 Florence 50121 |
The creation of the Giardino dei Semplici or Botanical Gardens (Orto Botanico), was ordered by Cosimo I de'Medici in the mid 16th century and planned by Niccolo Tribolo. It was one of the first of its kind in the world. The Gardens were planted by famous botanists, one of whom, Pier Antonio Micheli, made additions in the following century. Today the collection comprises 6000 plants of different kinds from all over the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicky Peacock |
 Photo: raekbelt |
The first testimony of St Petronilla |
280/282 Via delle Sette Chiese Rome, Rome 00147 +39 6 511 0342 http://www.catacombe.domitilla... framiser@domitilla.it |
Domitilla's catacombs are part of a vast funereal complex, a necropolis that contains monuments from the 1st century AD Santa Petronilla and the martyrs Nereo and Achilleo are buried in this area. The bodies of the two martyrs are in the underground basilica, whose entrance bears an inscription in their honour dictated by Pope Damaso. In one of the numerous cubicles there is a painting of matron Veneranda entering paradise accompanied by the martyr Petronilla. This is probably the first document that refers to Petronilla as a martyr; indeed, it dates from the first half of the 4th century. Part of the catacombs is reserved for the tombs of children, and there are images of Love and Psyche depicted as children surrounded by floral decorations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cyndi Woodward |
 Photo: radiantb |
Popes' Catacombs |
110/126 Via Appia Antica Rome 00179 +39 6 5130 1580 |
The catacombs of San Callisto, known for more than two centuries as the Church of Rome's cemetery, contain the tombs of nine popes buried in the Crypt. They extend over approximately 20km on four floors. Strangely enough, the tomb of Callisto I, martyred in 200 while celebrating a mass in Trastevere, is not to be found here. The most visited sites are obviously the papal 'crypt' and Santa Cecilia's sepulchre. These places were accidentally discovered by the scholar Giovanni Battista de Rossi, who entered a vineyard and noticed two unusual structures; one was converted into a farmhouse and the other was used as a wine shop and contained bottles of wine. Acquiring the land with the consent of Pope Pius IX and starting excavations, he found some relics, which led to the final discovery of the entire complex. Admission is EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sammy Olu Job |
 Photo: Gaila Rae |
 Photo: Dave Hogan |
The oldest cemetery in Bologna |
Via della Certosa 18 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40133 +39 51 614 2382 |
The site of the oldest cemetery in Bologna, the Certosini cemetery sits on top of what was previously an Etrusan necropolis. The necropolis was uncovered in 1869 by archaelogical digs carried out by Antonio Zannoni. The cemetery has now become a very special memorial. It is beside the Certosini Monastery (built in 1801). Nowadays, it contains a collection of the most artistic funeral monuments, many of which were carved by some of the best 19th and 20th century artists. There are monuments to famous men like Giosué Carducci, Giorgio Morandi e Ottorino Respighi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Davide Prandini |
 Photo: Francesca Parisini |
 Photo: Marina Taffetani |
 Photo: d.quara |
 Photo: Samuela Lepori |
 Photo: pepex85 |
 Photo: Luca Montevecchi |
 Photo: Mauro Squiz Daviddi |
Fighting in an ancient arena |
Via del Circo Massimo Rome, Rome 00153 |
In the 4th century B.C., the Circus Maximus was one of the largest stadia in Rome, with a capacity of 250,000 seated spectators. It was the venue for horse racing, athletics tournaments and animal fighting. The last races held there were in 549 A.D. Another very popular sport was marine battling: the arena was filled with water and fights between light boats took place. The tower is from medieval times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ville Luolajan-Mikko |
 Photo: Peter Chapman |
 Photo: Teri Morrison |
 Photo: Jolyon Russ |
 Photo: Edward Taylor |
 Photo: schaapblater |
 Photo: remybu |
 Photo: SV Contact |
 Photo: James Wilson |
 Photo: Helen Karrandjas |
Public garden |
Via Guastalla Milan, Milan 20122 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Created in 1555 by Countess Paola Ludovica Torelli della Guastalla, this garden is located behind the Sormani Library, right in the Historical Centre. On the side adjacent to Via Francesco Sforza, there is a fish pond, and a baroque basin, beautified in springtime by the flowering Lotus plants. The Park extends over a surface area of 12,000 square metres. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Klodjana Dervishi |
Ancient Neapolitan cemetry |
77 Via Fontanelle Naples 80136 |
The small eighteenth-century church of Maria Santissima del Carmine stands at the end of the Via Fontanelle, where the urban landscape assumes a rural aspect. Access to the delle Fontanelle ossuary is via this church. Fron ancient times, tufa was excavated from the Materdei hills in order to make way for the caves which came to be used as the city's ossuary. Any visitor to the ossuary, as they walk around the trapezoidal ground at twilight when beams of light fall upon the innumerable human skulls and bones which, when laid out look like some kind of macabre architectural decoration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: francesca solaro |
 Photo: Max Agoinunpagliaio |
 Photo: rizzera |
 Photo: Francesco Palladino |
 Photo: elena castellano |
 Photo: rizzera |
 Photo: Emanuela Martolò |
 Photo: Rino Palma(morimur29 |
 Photo: fotografaindivenire |
The largest marine park in Europe |
Area Porto Antico - Ponte Spinola Genoa 16128 +39 10 248 8011 http://www.acquario.ge.it info@acquario.ge.it |
This museum, one of the main tourist attractions in Italy, welcomes millions of visitors each year. Built between 1989 and 1992, it reproduces a coastal atmosphere in 48 basins, four of which are oceanic and have two viewing levels. Continually changing, it also includes the Nave Italia, which was the seat of the Italian Pavilion during the Expo of 1992, and is now home to around 500 different species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds and invertebrates. Entrance fee: adults: EUR11.60; ages 3-12: EUR6.90; children up to three enter free; groups and school parties welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Stewart |
 Photo: Hugh Kelly |
 Photo: Rosalia Geraci |
 Photo: *blulu* |
 Photo: nima72 |
 Photo: Giovanni Lanzarotti |
 Photo: Umby |
 Photo: stxanax |
 Photo: lisa ET3 |
 Photo: luca |
 Photo: Alessandro |
Former Royal Garden |
Piazza Pitti, 1 Florence 50125 +39 55 265 1838 http://www.polomuseale.firenze... giardino.boboli@polomuseale.firenze.it |
Inside this garden lies the Buontalenti grotto (1583-1593). Decorated with mannerist-style scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, the grotto includes copies of Michelangelo's famous "Slave" series, the originals of which were transferred to the Galleria dell'Accademia. In the 17th century, the garden was extended as far as the Porta Romana, adding the Vasca d'Isola (pond) at the centre with a fountain and a statue of Neptune. In the late 18th century, Zanobi del Rosso built the Kaffehaus pavilion. Admission is EUR 6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sebd_ch |
 Photo: Corrie & Cassie Pott |
 Photo: Andreina Schoeberlein |
 Photo: Julie Fleischer |
 Photo: Rocco Fazio |
 Photo: Carmen Cristina Rizz |
 Photo: Christina J. Weis |
 Photo: Cristiano Campeggiani |
 Photo: Renato Balocco |
 Photo: Alessandro Gervaso |
 Photo: Michael Hußmann |
 Photo: Andreea Obilisteanu |
 Photo: Fotòfilo.Mimmo |
 Photo: Giacomo Natale |
 Photo: Simon Inglis |
The Bersaglieri garden |
Via Cernaia Turin 10121 |
At the end of Via Cernaia towards Porta Susa station, the gracious Lamarmora garden (better known as the Bersaglieri garden) lies on the right. Attributed to Pierre Barillet-Deschamps, who probably designed it around 1863, the garden is usually given this name because of the series of statues dedicated to Bersaglieri soldiers (by Giorgio Ceragioli in 1936) that precedes the garden itself. The garden is home to the monument dedicated to Alessandro Lamarmora that was produced in 1867 by Giuseppe Cassano and adorned with bas-reliefs by Giuseppe Dini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lele De Stasio |
Attractive gardens with small lake |
Viale Gozzadini Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40017 |
These beautiful gardens were created in 1875 by Emanuele di Sambuy. It was designed to give the Bolognese a place to relax away from all the noise of the city. Whole families still come here every Sunday for an afternoon stroll. The gardens have a small lake which reflects a chalet were you can eat during the Summer. In the evening the chalet becomes a nightclub and is packed with young people. The garden also covers an important archeological area where lots of ancient tombs have been unearthed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gianluca.fortini |
The family tomb |
Piazza Augusto Imperatore Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The construction of this large tomb was undertaken by Octavian in 29 BC. It was known as the Mausoleum right from the start and was built to glorify the name and memory of Octavian and to hold the remains of the Julio-Claudian dynasty (which included Nero and Julia, the daughter of Augustus). Excavations were begun in 1936 and were completed in 1938 when the monument was finally uncovered, albeit in very poor condition. It is circular and has lost all its decoration over time. The entrance was preceded by two obelisks (now in Piazza del Quirinale and Piazza Esquilino). The first to be buried in the tomb was Marcellus who was followed by Agrippa, Drusus the elder and younger, Livia, and Tiberius. Augustus was buried there in 14 AD and Caligula had his mother Agrippina and his brothers and sisters buried there too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: Jewell |
 Photo: Iain Clucas |
 Photo: Havering |
 Photo: Keri Honea |
 Photo: William A. Rutledge |
 Photo: Cha Shao Bao |
 Photo: Adam Shane |
 Photo: Avedan Raggio |
 Photo: Christopher Battle |
 Photo: Peter Hawkey |
Handiwork of Michelangelo |
Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini Florence, FI +39 55 29 4883 |
The Medici Chapels are historical labors that are as grand in their own way as are the pyramids of Egypt. Started in 1605, these shrines were under construction for centuries. Eighty five years earlier Michelangelo was tasked to design and build the New Sacristy from one of the Medici cardinals Giulio de' Medici, who is remember in history as Pope Clement VII. Typical of a spiritual leader he was obsessed with the here-after and the creation of these intricate chapels testifies to that. Of artistic note are actual charcoal sketches by Michelangelo's own hand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jenni Jacobus |
 Photo: Kris Long |
 Photo: Josimar Dominguez |
 Photo: Angie Reddick |
 Photo: art director |
Enjoy the Tuscan countryside |
Strada dei Colli Alti Florence 50019 |
Set high up in a beautiful spot overlooking the city, this park is ideal for family days out and the perfect antidote to city stress. Spend a lazy afternoon stretched out on the grass, go for a meander along its pathways or bring a picnic. Appreciated by Tuscan Resistance members who sought refuge here during the Second World War, the park is easy to get to: just follow Via Bolognese or Via dei Colli Alti near Colonnata (enjoy the view on the way up), which lead to Piazzale Leonardo da Vinci (595m). On a clear day the entire Arno valley is visible from here and a further two-hour walk takes you to Monte Morello's highest point of 934m. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: x3o_o3 |
The city's cemetery |
1 Piazzale Cimitero Maggiore Milan, Milan 20151 |
For those who feel up to it, this enormous complex is well worth a visit for both its historic and artistic value. The central building was designed by Maciachini and constructed from 1860 to 1897. It is in Neo-Medieval style with Tuscan, Venetian and Lombard touches. Showing a skilful use of various types of marbles and stones, it reflects the trend of the period of reviving Medieval Italian styles. It is set at the end of a wide avenue running from Porta Volta. The entrance takes you to the central part of the "Famedio" that houses the mortal remains of famous Milanese citizens (such as Cattaneo, Manzoni etc.), and that runs into two lateral arms on two levels, with further galleries that border the front square. The vast area behind includes an ossuary-building at the centre, and, further back, a small area for cremation. The sumptuous richness of the chapels and funeral monuments makes the cemetery a sort of "open-air museum of contemporary Italian statuary and architecture" (Mezzanotte). It has recently been enlarged with a "camouflage" system in Neo-Gothic brickwork, that has sparked off a lot of critical debate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea G. Boretti |
 Photo: Marco Garghentini |
 Photo: Daniele Prati |
City park |
150 Via Gian Carlo Clerici Sesto S. Giovanni Milan, Milan 20099 http://www.parconord.milano.it/ info@parconord.milano.it |
Opened in 1975, this park is a place which used to be a marginal, run down area on the outskirts of the city. A recuperation project which begun in 1967 gradually improved the environment and made over 600 hectares of green space. The area has now become a proper city park and a place to breathe in the city. It also has numerous leisure facilities, such as fountains, cycling paths and a seated area and is popular with locals and schoolchildren. There are buildings of historic interest in the area such as the Villa Torretta di Sesto S. Giovanni and Villa Manzoni at Cormano, as well as over 100 plant species here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: F@ß!O |
Squirrels in the park |
Via Capolungo 1, 3, 9 Via Anita Garibaldi Genoa 16167 |
Today a public park, this is an amalgamation of the splendid gardens of the Groppallo, Serra and Grimaldi villas, which, together with the Villa Brignole Sale (Duchessa di Galliera), make up the largest green space in the city. This luxuriant area, which occupies almost nine hectares, retains the orignal, romatically inspired layout of the gardens, with English lawns, palm trees, ponds and fountains, and a beautiful rose garden which in May and June is visited by plant lovers from near and far. While Villa Groppallo houses the city library, Villa serra is the site of the Galleria d'Arte Moderna Villa Serra Groppallo, and in what was the Villa Grimaldi (now Fassio) is the Raccolte Frugone a Villa Fassio. In the summer, the park, has recently been discovered as a perfect film location, hosts the famous International Ballet Festival and the Rose Garden Cinema: a summer arena for contemporary and classic films. But the Parco di Nervi is perhaps most memorable for the numerous, almost tame squirrels that live there, delighting generations of children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: klausthebest |
Beauty spot |
Via Lemonia Rome, Rome 00174 |
Located between the Via Appia Nuova and the Via Tuscolana, this is an excellent spot for photographs. The surroundings are dominated by the remains of three aqueducts: the Marcius aqueduct dating back to 140 B.C., the Claudius aqueduct from 52 A.D., and the Felice aqueduct from 1500 A.D. It is possible to stroll among the ancient monuments. The 'Colli Albani' hills in the background only add to the beauty of this spot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Valerio Impicciatore |
The city centre's park. |
Piazza Dell' Otto Agosto Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40126 |
The park is in the centre of the city and it was adapted for use as a park in the seventeenth century. People say that in the Napoleonic period, public events like the greasy pole and airballooning took place here. In 1806, an architect called Gian Battistia Martinetti began to reorganise the park and created the beautiful gardens which are there today. The pool which is at the centre of the park was put there by Diego Sarti in 1888. Interestingly, the park is built on some of the castle's remains at the end razed Castello di Galliera. You can see of Via Indipendenza, at the foot of the impressive staircase which leads up to the gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: laura stramacchia |
 Photo: manudia |
 Photo: Paolo Russomanno |
 Photo: Claudio Cicali |
Medici Villa |
Via di Castello, 47 Florence 50141 |
The villa belonged to the Medici family and Cosimo, Florence's new Duke, began the work on renovating the grounds, he planned an Italian garden with geometric designs, Vasari made the Duke's dreams become reality. At the centre of the garden on the Fountain of Hercules and Anteus was placed a marble composition by Bartolomeo Ammannati, which is undergoing restoration. There are two lakes in the garden, with stone sculptures of animals, which stand out amongst the water displays. Today, the villa is the home of the Accademia della Crusca (set up to preserve and to study the "correct" form of the Italian language in 1583 and transferred here in 1974), and is not accessible to the public. Admission includes a visit to the Villa Medicea La Petraia. Admission: L.4000 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nuvola Rossa |
Florence's biggest public park |
Piazza Vittorio Veneto Florence 50123 |
Spread over 118 hectares, this popular park is a favourite with joggers, horse riders and families with young children, especially on Sundays and Tuesday mornings, when it's market day. Towards Piazza Vittorio Veneto on the park's east side is an open-air swimming pool (used during the summer months), while to the west is the park's amphitheatre, a popular summertime venue for dance performances and concerts. At the end of the 18th century important buildings such as the Palazzina Reale, currently home to the Facoltà di Agraria dell'Università degli Studi di Firenze (Florence University Science Faculty) were added before the park finally became public at the start of the 19th century. Horse racing takes place not far from here at the Ippodromo delle Muline. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: matteo potenza |
 Photo: D.Puliti |
Egyptian and Hellenistic temples set in parkland |
Via F. Stibbert, 24 Florence 50138 |
This beautiful open park belonged to the Stibbert family who owned the adjacent villa - now home to the Stibbert Museum. It was designed by Poggi in the Romantic style, in accordance with English tastes, and is spread out over three hectares. Distinctive features include an Egyptian temple facing a duck pond, as well as a Hellenistic temple beyond the lemon trees and the stables. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sandro Migliorini |
Sport in the open air |
Corso Regina Margherita Turin 10144 |
With over 6000 trees, this has to be one of the most beautiful and largest parks in the city. It is ideal for long walks or bike rides. Equipped with sports facilities, football pitches, basketball courts, gymnastic routes and an open air swimming pool, it is a favourite haunt of Torinese families on a Sunday. It is also possible to walk al ong the banks of the river Dora and admire the flora in an elegant pond. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Davide Mainardi |
 Photo: Marco Scaloni |
 Photo: sciain |
 Photo: maurizio messa |
 Photo: El Gabrio |
A 19th-century piazza with handsome gardens |
Piazza D'Azeglio Florence 50121 |
This piazza was formed in the Mattonaia quarter of the city, inside the city walls, at the end of the 19th century as a result of the development plan devised by the architect Poggi in the 1870s. Once established, the bourgeoisie then considered the area both residential and desirable! The area then saw the creation of Prince Umberto's theatre - sadly destroyed two decades later. Another building appeared on the piazza at the beginning of the 20th century but today, this remains one of the few green spaces in the city centre. There are amusements for young children including a merry-go-round, slides and a wooden castle in a cordoned-off area; and there are also areas for older children such as a basketball pitch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ornella Olivieri |
 Photo: Ornella Olivieri |
For a romantic walk |
Piazza del Pincio Rome, Rome 00187 |
These lovely gardens overlook one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, Piazza del Popolo. There were gardens here even in the time of Ancient Rome, and it is said that they were quite fabulous. The present-day gardens were designed in the early 19th century by the architect Valadier who also created Piazza del Popolo itself. They became a favourite location for walking, and who knows how many love stories blossomed amongst the pine trees? Piazzale Napoleone I offers an unforgettable view of Rome, along with the famous Water Clock that dates back to the 19th century. A visit to the restaurant La Casina Valadier is well worth it, for a coffee or a light lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: augusto83 |
 Photo: Gab977 |
 Photo: Davide Florian |
 Photo: Dr Feelgood ® |
The tombs of famous Florentines |
Salita del Monte alle Croci Florence 50125 |
This monumental cemetery was created in the second half of the 19th century, according to the taste of the time for revival architecture that employed neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance overtones. These styles have been used on the tombs of important Florentine citizens, even in recent times. Amongst the citizens buried here are Giovanni Spadolini, Carlo Lorenzini, Giovanni Papini and the stylist Enrico Coveri. The cemetery, which was designed by Mariano Falcini, extends all along the side of the Basilica of San Miniato, inside the building created for the Grand Duke in the 16th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bart Kroon |
 Photo: pelle70 |
 Photo: Steve in the cemeter |
Garden of eternal peace |
6 Via Caio Cestio Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 574 1141 |
This is a Protestant cemetery in a beautiful area. Several distinguished people are buried here: writer Daisy Miller, poet John Keats and his friend Joseph Severn. The ashes of Shelley, the remains of Antonio Gramsci and those of Goethe's son, Julius are also kept here. Get a map when you come in. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dan Diffendale |
 Photo: Steve Tunnicliff |
 Photo: JosefM |
 Photo: fabrizio perrini |
 Photo: Jessica Sun |
 Photo: Bill McGuire |
 Photo: Albert Chang |
 Photo: Simone Petrucci |
 Photo: anna malsberger |
A temple for sports enthusiasts |
Corso Trapani Turin 10139 |
Ruffini Park is one of the natural open spaces in the city. It is bounded by the Corsi Trapani, Lione, Brunelleschi and D'Albertis. Here you can hire bikes and there are also gymnastic routes to follow which make it a favourite place with athletic types. There are wide avenues and a football pitch where the youth teams of Turin and Juventus play each weekend. Surrounding the pitch is an athletics track where the International Meeting of Light Athletics is held each year attracting better quality competitors each time. Ruffini Park is also home to the Palazzetto dello Sport where volleyball, five-a-side football and basketball teams can play; it also holds concerts of Italian pop music. Festivals are also held at regular intervals outside the Palazzetto. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vekron |
Park near the old square |
Parco Sempione Milan, Milan 20121 |
The Park occupies the place of the ancient Piazza d'Armi. It was initiated in 1980 according to the designs of Architect Alemagna. It is a Romantic style park with English style organization. It became, from the time of its opening, a centre of public initiative for expositions, such as the re-uniting Exhibition of 1894 and the International Exhibition of 1906 from which remains the functioning Aquarium pavilion. At its borders rises the Art Palace, built in 1931 by design of Architect Giovanni Muzio, the centre of the Triennial of Milan and the Park Towers, planned in 1933 by Giò Ponti. It is bordered by the Castle, the arena, the Peace Arch, and the North Railway yard. Special Interest: The fountain "dei Bagni Misteriosi", by the painter De Chirico and the mermaid bridge, in cast iron, transported to the park when the Canal was closed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniele e Marta |
 Photo: formerly-JF presently S-Team |
 Photo: bluewings33 |
 Photo: Gioia Negri |
 Photo: 0style |
 Photo: Leibniz* |
 Photo: Francesca Minonne |
 Photo: Päivi_K |
 Photo: Silvia |
 Photo: Francesco Topputo |
 Photo: Andrea Fitrianto |
 Photo: Paolo Valenti |
 Photo: wahrulez |
 Photo: Mirko Guarnieri |
 Photo: Kjell_F |
Seekers of immortality |
Piazzale Resasco Genoa 16137 |
This is one of the most interesting cemeteries in Italy and is visited by many foreign tourists. It owes its fame to its amphitheatre on the slopes of the hill and the continuous succession of monumental buildings and little woods. It was created by G.B.Resasco in successive phases since the middle of the nineteenth century. It is dominated by the Chapel of the Intercession (or Pantheon). Here are all the headstones of the famous people of the city. There are sculptures and architecture throughout the galleries, tree-lined avenues and in the English and Jewish cemetries. They are not only a sample of art from the second half of the nineteenth century; they also show the self-congratulatory nature of the upper-classes of this period. They spared no expense in order that they should be remembered by a chapel or a monument next to the city's heroes. Caterina Campodonico is a well-known example. She was a simple salesgirl who stood at streetcorners selling nuts and canestrelli. She saved money all her life so that she might have a funeral monument which was similar in stature to that of Mazzini. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniele C. Martucci |
 Photo: Simone Lehmann |
 Photo: sil73 |
 Photo: Morgan Fuse |
 Photo: Rômulo Queiroz |
 Photo: Ottavia Rizzo |
 Photo: moita |
 Photo: Stephen Shaheen |
 Photo: giasco |
 Photo: Silvia Distefano |
 Photo: Bargaggina |
 Photo: Alessio L. Bottiroli |
 Photo: Ilaria Parodi |
 Photo: Romboid |
 Photo: Caroline Ribi Zappi |
 Photo: Paolo Canavese |
The five flowered garden |
Via Cavour, 1 Valeggio sul Mincio 37067 http://www.sigurta.it sigurta@sigurta.it |
The Villa Sigurtà park is one of the most beautiful in the world. It covers half a million meters square with over seven km of track which can only be covered by car or by coach. Along the route there are 13 stop off points which correspond to themed points of interest of outstanding beauty. Five of these points of interest involve popular flowers based on the seasons, from spring to autumn: first the tulips, then irises, lilies, roses and asters. Throughout the year however the garden does see some changes, with the colours and natural scenery continually changing. The visitors, having parked their cars, are free to discover the many delights the park has to offer such as the hedges pruned in surreal shapes the broom path, the tanks of aquatic plants. Three places however, combine the beauty of nature with the sound of music: melodic sounds near to Eremo, spiritual sounds near to the votive cave and classical music in the woods. A truly memorable experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: el_Ricky |
 Photo: Pearl Reynolds |
 Photo: poio78 |
 Photo: Giordano Coccaglio |
 Photo: Luca Campagnaro |
 Photo: Salvatore Falcone |
 Photo: Davide Deidda |
 Photo: Silvia Sabbioni |
 Photo: twbonjo |
 Photo: Federico Righetto |
 Photo: Chiara |
The library of the parks |
98 Corso Trieste Moncalieri 10024 |
The Delle Vallere area lies on the boundary between Turin and Moncalieri at the confluence of the Po and the Sangone. It covers 130 hectares. Inside, a restored late 18th c. farmhouse houses the documentation on the local parks and protected areas, and has a large library of books and magazines. The Delle Vallere area gives an idea of what the territory surrounding Turin was like before the building boom: large farmhouses on a plateau with intensive agriculture of cereals and forage. Cycling and touristic routes begin at the Vallere which allow you to explore the banks of the Po and Sangone and to observe many species of aquatic birds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicola Corcelli |
 Photo: Nicola Corcelli |
A cultural avenue and the scene of a demonstration |
Viale delle Belle Arti Rome, Rome 00196 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The Viale delle Belle Arti is in Valle Giulia. It starts in the square of the same name and ends in Largo Picasso inside Villa Borghese, having crossed several small squares. The area has a lot of open land and is the setting for institutes, academies, cultural centres, embassies and important museums, in particular the Museo Etrusco di Villa Giulia at the start of the avenue, and the Palazzo delle Belle Arti (Museum of Fine Arts). Also known as the National Gallery of Modern Art, it is home to the English Academy and is the main centre of the Faculty of Architecture. The road became famous following student protests in 1968 when the university buildings were occupied. This particular complex was occupied by one of the most radical of the student groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Annamaria Nizi |
View over the Gianicolo |
1 Via Mazzarino Rome, Rome 00184 |
This villa was built in 1500 and later acquired by Pope Clement VIII Aldobrandini. The villa itself is not open to the public, but the recently restored gardens are accessible. During restoration work in this area the gardens have been raised, and now offer a view reaching as far as the Gianicolo. In the 17th century, statues representing the seasons were commissioned, but they were later transferred to the country villa at Frascati. After a careful examination by experts, it is believed that the statues were probably made by Bernini and his son. The building forming the backdrop for the garden is baroque in style, and is now used by the Istituto per l'Unificazione del Diritto Privato, a law reform institution. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mareluna |
A park for the Romans |
Piazzale Flaminio Rome, Rome 00196 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) http://www.villaborghese.it |
Design of the villa began at the start of the 17th century when Pope Paul V Borghese was elected. Its style resembles that of city villas from 100 years earlier. The gardens were especially cared for - aviaries were added to house exotic birds and areas of the gardens were stocked with peacocks, ostriches, gazelles and even lions. Over the years, the garden was altered into an English-style space designed by Jacob Moore. One of the park's loveliest areas is the Lake Garden, which is enclosed by a railing that emphasises the lake's irregular shape. In the centre of an artificial island, a temple was built dedicated to Aesculapius. The famous Square of Siena has been the scene of horse-jumping and carriage-racing competitions since it was first built. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Josef Trinidad |
 Photo: darina_manolova |
 Photo: Daniella Chiminelli |
 Photo: fiammetta53 |
 Photo: CamillAudia |
 Photo: Mike Meyer |
 Photo: Walter Donatello |
 Photo: LucaCaOs |
 Photo: snowpony |
 Photo: Chad Young |
 Photo: aumarie benipayo |
 Photo: ArGotique |
 Photo: katharine lentini |
 Photo: nccroma by Clark |
 Photo: moewejonathan |
 Photo: John Nordling |
 Photo: Luca De Vito |
 Photo: Hannah Waterfield |
Deer and Tibetan goats in the park |
Vico Da Corte, 2 Genoa 16158 |
Built between the 16th and 17th centuries in the Voltri region, at the very edge of the present day "Grande Genova", the villa underwent reconstruction work in the nineteenth century, at the wishes of the owner Maria Brignole Sale, the Duchess of Galliera. A cultured and refined woman, a benefactress of the city, who was to furnish the Palazzo Bianchi and Palazzo Rosso with the respective art collections, as well as donating large amounts of money to charitable trusts, the duchess left this villa, and the enormous park surrounding it to the city council. The estate is actually known not so much because of the villa, but on account of the 25 hectares of land around it, including an Italian garden, the sanctuary of N. S. delle Grazie, and several other eclectic buildings like the "Latteria" (dairy), the castle and the "Café". Walking round the park, you cross large green areas, with woods, grottoes and meadows where a herd of friendly deer live in captivity; fun for the children and another excuse to leave the hustle and bustle of the city to immerse yourself in this natural oasis of calm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabio Baiardini |
 Photo: circolo_fotografico |
Open-Air Museum |
Piazza della Navicella Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) http://www.villacelimontanajaz... |
The lovely Villa Celimontana was originally a vineyard that was bought by the Mattei family to whom the new design of the gardens is owed. On the Celio hill, it has long attracted visitors with the beauty of the villa and the trees and ancient marbles in its gardens, including an obelisk from the times of Ramses II. It became the property of various foreigners until 1918 when it was confiscated by the Italian state. The last owner, Baron Riccardo Hoffmann, contributed to its expansion and added a small Neo-Gothic temple, which is now the home of the Italian Geographic Society. The villa is as beautiful as ever and a lovely spot to pass a few hours (or take in the talents of renowned musicians at the Jazz & Image festival). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo Martinez |
 Photo: pascale nguyen-the |
 Photo: pattybruce1961 |
 Photo: Lorenzo Giove |
9 kilometres of open countryside |
Via di San Pancrazio Rome, Rome 00152 +39 6 3937 6616 (municipicio Roma) |
Villa Doria Pamphili has its main entrance at San Pancrazio Gate though it has other entrances around its 9-kilometre perimeter. Besides being Rome's largest park, it is also one of the richest in terms of vegetation with tall trees and rare plants. There are also many animals: marsh turtles, moorhens, herons, swans, geese and fish in the pool. The park was laid out on the orders of Prince Camillo Pamphili, the nephew of Pope Innocent X, between 1644 and 1652. The villa was designed with sculptor and architect Alessandro Algardi, the creator of the fountains of the Lily and the Snail. Algardi is also attributed with the Casino di Allegrezza, one of the park's best features, although it is argued by some that he only contributed to the decoration. The last changes to the villa were made by Andrea Busirici Vici who was commissioned by Prince Filippo Andrea V Doria Pamphili. Currently the Casino and the secret garden are owned by the state while the rest of the park is owned by Rome Council and is open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sara Gavanovich |
To visit the Villa della Regina |
Parco di Villa Genero Villa della Regina per strada comunale Santa Margherita Turin 10100 |
The park of Villa Genero lies in the foothills of the Alps. It is attractive for its position, from where it is possible to admire much of the city, but also for its large trees, avenues and plants. The abandoned Villa della Regina stands inside, urgently in need of renovation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: koomi |
 Photo: Celeste Benenti |
 Photo: AntiMeS |
A suburban villa fit for a king |
Via S.Fruttuoso, 70 Genoa 16143 |
Built between the end of the fifteenth century and the beginning of the sixteenth century for Lorenzo Cattaneo, restructured around 1560, this was the model for all Genoese villas before the alessian style became popular. It is characterised by its long form and double galleries at the corners. After having housed one of the most important Genoese library collection for many years, the villa is curently closed for restoration work, after the collapse of part of the attractive frescoes upper floor, a sixteenth century work by L. Cambiaso, depicting the 'Rape of the Sabine women'. The surrounding park is very interesting. Today, it is a public garden, whose sixteenth century design is still clealy visible in the symmetrical starways to the front of the villa, while the garden behind the villa is a result of nineteenth century landscaping. The park is popular with local residents, and is an important green space in what is now a densely populated area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mmart |
Planned in the 1600's |
Viale Affori Milan, Milan 20161 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Designed in 1687 together with the suburban villa of the Marquis Corbella. Towards 1800 the property passed to the Family Litta Modigliani. Towards the middle of the 1900s, the Botanist Ercole Silva transformed the gardens which were until then romantic English style, to an Italian style garden. The Park offers bicycle paths and an area equipped with children's games. The Villa hosts the Civic Centre and the area Library. The Park encompasses a surface area of 70,000 square metres. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcello Doati |
 Photo: Giulia Paltrinieri |
 Photo: °V° |
 Photo: Matteo Marangoni |
 Photo: Giulio Pianese |
 Photo: medico Maceti (o l'o |
Splendid Medici villa |
Via della Petraia, 40 Florence 50141 +39 55 45 1208 |
It was Ferdinando I de' Medici who commissioned the restructuring works to this castle, which belonged to the Brunelleschi family in the second half of the 16th century. It seems more than likely that Buonalenti was placed in charge of the project. In 1648, Volterrano completed the frescoes on the walls of the inner courtyard, depicting the splendour of the Medici family. The courtyard was covered with an iron structure when the villa passed to the Savoy family, who then transformed it into a summer residence, introducing new furniture, including imperial pieces from other royal residences. The Italian gardens in front of the villa, complete with nurseries, greenhouses and pools, were designed in the 16th century and partly modified in the 19th century. To the rear are some beautiful English gardens designed by Fritsch. Many of the villa's rooms are open to visitors, including the lounge which the Savoy family equipped with parlour games. Guided tours are available at specific times. The gardens close one hour prior to the villa and tickets are also valid for entry to the park at the Villa Medicea di Castello. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chiara sibona |
A lovely park on the outskirts |
Via De Marchesetti, 37 Trieste 34142 |
A lovely park on the city's outskirts where you can take a walk and at the same time admire the lovely villa that belonged in the 19th century to Baron Pasquale Revoltella, a patron of art and culture. Like an alpine chalet and with its two floors, it was in this lovely building, which can no longer be visited, that the Baron spents his days relaxing. In the garden between a lovely fountain and a basket ball pitch popular among young people, you can also find the stables and Revoltella's private chapel, dedicated to the holy Spaniard Pasquale Baylon and where the remains of the Baron still lay. Inside the church, there are several neo-gothic style features to be admired. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco & Chiara |
Mythological statues |
35 Via Calandrelli Rome, Rome 00153 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
This park lies on the slopes of the Gianicolo. It boasts botanical plants and statues of mythological figures as well as a holy copse dedicated to a nymph which was part of the area known as Caesar's gardens. The building is closed for restoration but the gardens are splendid, particularly when in flower. Fountains represent figures such as Apollo and Daphne, the Dawn and a myriad of fauns at play. Representations of the months of the year have been created in a semi-circular flowerbed and other fountains have allegorical themes such as various sins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Varrone |
 Photo: FabioPACE |
 Photo: Nicoletta |
 Photo: Girados |
Terraced Italian garden |
Via Casaglia 1 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40043 +39 51 614 5512 |
This beautiful villa is neoclassical in style and was designed by the architect Giovanni Martinetti. It is located on a hill which is bordered by the Ravone river, because of this the villa has become known as Palazzo Ravone. The building was finished in 1794, and belonged to the Zambeccari marquises, and in 1849 it was chosen by the Austrian General Radetsky as quarters for Austrian troops in Italy. It was badly damaged by bombing during the war, and in the 60's it passed into the hands of the local council. The beautiful park, in which Martinetti made a terraced Italian garden, was opened to the public in 1970, and contains many plants from distant lands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Zanchi |
 Photo: prospero3 |
 Photo: emisurac |
Modern park |
70 Via Nomentana Rome, Rome 00161 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Construction of this villa began in the early 19th century, and the architect entrusted with the commission was Valadier, whose other works include the Piazza del Popolo. As years passed by, other portions of land were purchased in order to extend the park, which was landscaped by garden architect Augusto Jappelli. The villa was the private residence of Benito Mussolini from 1925 to 1943, when he was the Head of Government: after WWII it was used as the headquarters of the Anglo-American command in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.iperio.net |
 Photo: sorin eliescu |
 Photo: Francesco Emme |
 Photo: marcopaci |
 Photo: Gaia Saviotti |
 Photo: Ben |
 Photo: crino_lina |
 Photo: luigi rossini |
 Photo: Francesco |
 Photo: Attilio Correnti |
 Photo: Luca Fiorani |
 Photo: Sascha |
 Photo: Marta Staccioli |
 Photo: A_to_the_G |
 Photo: Supa_Faith |
 Photo: Lucio Farinelli |
The villa of fountains |
1 Piazza Trento Tivoli, Rome 00019 +39 4 2446 4191 http://www.villadestetivoli.in... villadestetivoli@telekottageplus.com |
This splendid villa was built in a former Benedictine monastery by Pirro Ligorio for Cardinal Ippolito d'Este, the son of Lucrezia Borgia. The gardens have been rather neglected but the fountains are still spectacular and one avenue in particular has 100 fountains in the form of obelisks and ships with eagles (representing the d'Este coat of arms.) At the end of the avenue there is Rometta, a reproduction of the Tiberina island. Another work, which must have been extraordinary when constructed, is the Organ Fountain where the force of the pumped water through the pipes produced musical notes. Sadly, however, the fountain has not played for years. Diana's Grotto and the fine fountain of the Bicchierone by Bernini can be visited. On the lower level there are lovely gardens, fountains and a panoramic view. To reach Tivoli from Rome, there is the train or the bus from Rebibbia station, or Line B of the underground train. Ticket prices are between EUR6.50-EUR3.25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Susanna Fratarcangeli |
 Photo: Farid Riman |
 Photo: MaurizioGrimaldi | P |
 Photo: k.kurashima |
 Photo: sathish jayagopal |
 Photo: Jasmin Alice Swift |
 Photo: Emma Ramoy |
 Photo: Claudia Spampinato |
 Photo: Samantha Stopple |
 Photo: Alessandro Pacca |
 Photo: Stephen Colebourne |
 Photo: comexe |
 Photo: Saverio Salatino |
 Photo: baglivi |
 Photo: baglivi |
 Photo: Reowin Renkema |
 Photo: maxitor |
Villa with an Italian garden and an English garden |
Via Saragozza 228/230 Bologna 40135 +39 51 43 6818 |
The beautiful Villa dell Rose sits on Monte Franco and is surrounded by a lovely Italian garden and an English garden where many rare and exotic plants are grown. The park as a whole is absolutely enchanting and is definitely a place to visit during one of the hot Bolognese afternoons. The villa was built for the Cella family and then passed into the hands of the Armandi Avogli counts. In 1916, Nerina, the widow of Count Avogli left the property to the city of Bologna who opened the Galleria d'Arte Moderna there. In 1975 the gallery was moved to its current location in Piazza Costituzione and the Villa was kept as a location for temporary exhibitions. Today it hosts exhibitions of contemporary art. The villa is only open during exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: spleeen |
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