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Located in Calcata (VT), this garden overlooks the Treja valley and the homonymous hamlet. It was built in 1990 by architect and scholar Paolo Portoghesi – also specialized in Baroque architecture – and his wife Giovanna Massobrio.
Named “the most beautiful park” of 2017, it extends over 7 acres. Portoghesi conceived it as a repository of memories, giving Mother Nature the last word about its actual design.
The huge egg at the entrance – which symbolizes life and its cosmic renewal – precedes a thicket of centenary olive and ancient fruit trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials.
About a hundred lecterns scattered around, display literary and philosophical texts. In the center, there is a circular temple, surrounded by a canal and a small holm oak forest.
It’s also worth noticing the presence of the Biblioteca dell’Angelo (Angel’s Library), inside a typical house from Calcata (VT), with precious volumes and souvenirs from around the world.

Many endangered animal species are also present, including water birds, rare species of ducks, Hawaiian geese, and even two pelicans near the pond. Then, there are flamingos, ibis, storks, parrots, cranes – housed in large cages – a domesticated owl, and some 700 birds. Not to mention goats, llamas, and donkeys – including Amiatini and Asinara species. Hadn’t it been for Mrs. Giovanna, all these animals would have perished miserably.

The Portoghesi garden is part of a tourist development project, which includes many itineraries to archaeological, historical, gastronomic, and natural beauties.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)