Giardino Giusti
Veneto
Giardino Giusti, located in Verona, Italy, is one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance gardens, established in 1580. Adjacent to the 16th-century Giusti Palace, the garden showcases a harmonious blend of geometric parterres, cypress-lined avenues, and a famous hedge maze. The garden climbs a hillside through a series of terraces, offering expansive views over Verona. Notable features include the grotto of the genius loci, adorned with a large mascherone attributed to Bartolomeo Ridolfi, and several artificial caves carved into the tufa rock. The garden's design evolved over centuries, with significant additions in the 18th and early 20th centuries, including the reconstruction of the maze after World War II. Despite severe damage caused by a 2020 storm, Giardino Giusti remains a celebrated cultural and botanical landmark, reflecting the refined aesthetics and horticultural knowledge of the Renaissance period. The Giusti family, original owners since the 16th century, were honored with the surname "Giusti del Giardino" by the Austro-Hungarian Emperor in recognition of the garden's importance.
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Astuce: Visit Giardino Giusti during spring and early autumn for the best weather and blooming flowers. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays. The garden offers reduced admission for certain groups such as students and seniors. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events. Wear comfortable shoes as the garden involves walking on terraces and uneven paths.
Faits intéressants
- •The garden features a large hedge maze originally designed in the 16th century and reconstructed in 1786 and after World War II.
- •The grotto of the genius loci was originally decorated with shells, corals, mother-of-pearl, mosaics, and water features to entertain visitors.
- •The Giusti family was granted the surname "Giusti del Giardino" by the Austro-Hungarian Emperor due to the garden's significance.
- •The 600-year-old Goethe cypress, a famous tree in the garden, was destroyed during a 2020 storm.
- •The garden is part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani network, highlighting its importance among Italy's great gardens.
Histoire
The Giusti family's presence in Verona dates back to the late 13th century, originally involved in wool dyeing.
In 1406, Provolo Giusti acquired the land where the palace and garden were later developed.
The current palace and formal garden were commissioned in the 16th century by Agostino Giusti, transforming previous industrial buildings into a Renaissance residence and elegant garden.
The garden suffered extensive damage during World War II but was carefully restored in the postwar period.
In 2020, a severe storm caused significant damage, including the loss of the historic 600-year-old Goethe cypress, leading to its designation as one of Europa Nostra's "7 Most Endangered" heritage sites.
Guide du lieu
Parterre and Cypress Avenue1580
The garden's entrance features a vast parterre with geometric flower beds divided by a long central avenue lined with tall cypress trees, leading visitors deeper into the garden.
Hedge Maze16th century (original), 1786 (redesign)
A boxwood hedge maze located in the eastern section of the garden, originally designed in the 16th century and simplified in 1786 by architect Luigi Trezza. It offers a playful and historical experience for visitors.
Grotto of the Genius Loci and Mascherone16th century
A tufa rock grotto with a barrel vault interior, once decorated with shells, corals, mother-of-pearl, and mosaics. Above the entrance stands a giant mascherone (grotesque mask) attributed to sculptor Bartolomeo Ridolfi.
Artificial Caves and Tower16th century
On the second terrace, four artificial caves are carved into the hillside, alongside a tower with a spiral staircase providing access to the garden's highest viewpoint, the belvedere pavilion with panoramic views of Verona.
Contact
Téléphone: 045 803 4029
