The autumn is generally not the time of year for flowers, but that doesn’t mean visits to the gardens in any destination should be skipped. I have three specifically that I wish to pass along, for they are each divine in their own special way. How lucky, I found these beautiful gardens in Florence.
Boboli Gardens
I will start with the largest, most formal, and the only one that is not free to enter. The Boboli Gardens are right beside the Palazzo Pitti, and were added by the Medici family when they resided at the palace. Build in the 16th century, they are extensive and full of hidden gems if you know they are there.
Walking into the gardens behind the palace, a breathtaking scene emerges. One looks up the hillside at the formed hedges, fountains and statuary. Once half way up, turn around and look back at the palace. Truly a beautiful sight spreads out before your eyes.
There are several areas to the Boboli Gardens, I’ll tell you about a few of my favourite.
The Gentleman’s Pavillion
At the very top of this largest manicured portion of lawns and hedges, past the Neptune fountain, find the Gentleman’s Pavillion. This is where I found the greatest number of flowers in bloom. The views down the backside of the city, and of the old defensive walls are truly a Tuscan dream.
This garden is full of lizards, curious and inquisitive whenever I bent down to try and photograph them. The fountain at the centre with the little cherub is sweet and creates and gentle sound of water that softens the space.
Cypress Lane
From the upper most gardens, now head down the Cypress Lane. This beautiful wide gravel path is quintessentially regal, lined with trees and romantic statuary. On either side, walk through the topiary arches. It really gives one the feeling of history and elegance.
Botanical Garden
Hidden down one of the trails from the Cypress Lane is the small but glorious Botanical Garden. Hopefully you find the gates open as I did and can wander inside through the palm trees. Find the tropical lily ponds and have a seat in one of many charming chairs to listen to the birds and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze.
Lemon House
This is my first time seeing such a place, in fact I had never heard of a lemon house before. These are historical parts of many grand gardens in Italy. The hundreds of pots of lemons you can walk around in the garden, are all brought inside in the coldest winter months! When full of fragrant plants, the Lemon House was used for winter garden parties or simply a space for the ladies to languish in warmth.
The Isolotto
Built in 1618 this little island is surrounded by a large moat. With a fountain at the centre, I am curious if this was the home of the pet hippopotamus the Medici family had. Look down into the water and see the turtles with the longest white claws I have ever seen, swimming around.
Outside of the Isolotto, you are now at the far end of the gardens and about to exit. But before you do, take a seat in one of hundreds of chairs on the vast lawn, and relax in peace and quiet. Or walk the perimeter and see all of the ancient roman statuary from the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.
Rose Garden
For a free garden experience that is completely different, head to Florence’s Rose Garden. Find this on the way to Piazzale Michaelangelo. Wander the little trails and take in the beauty and fragrance of the blooms.
I can imagine in the spring and early summer, this garden in transformed into one bursting with colour. The views of the city are breathtaking and to sit here, amongst the unique statuary and fountains is a romantic affair indeed.
Giardino dell’Orticoltura
I’ll place a google link here, this is a special place, a community garden with many beautiful aspects. What drew my attention as soon as I saw the structure was that magnificent glass and metal greenhouse. This is used by the nearby library for cultural events.
Walk into the garden further and find the cutest statue of Pinocchio, an outdoor café and a beautiful old grandstand. This park is full of mature trees, families out playing and couples walking hand in hand.
Not done quite yet, cross the train tracks and head up the incline behind the garden. You will now be in another garden space called Sculpture of the Dragon! The vista at the top is stunning, with that glass greenhouse in the park below.
The central set of stairs is tiled, that forms the body of the dragon. Descend to find its head, crown and wings, and fountain running inside the large plant filled mouth.
I am always at peace in a garden. It doesn’t matter if its large or small, flowers or trees, the natural setting brings tranquility to my anxious mind. Any of these gardens are going to bring visitors joy when exploring Florence. They are a treasure, to have green space inside such a large city, places to escape traffic and crowds, are invaluable.
