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Villa Devoto, with the adjoining park in Cagliari, was built between 1915 and 1919 by Oddone and Girolamo Devoto; since 1955, when it was purchased by the Autonomous Region of Sardinia, it has been the main seat of the Regional Administration.

The 4.2- acre park features several terraces, slopes, and wide-open areas.
There are also many tree species, some of which quite rare like a beautiful specimen of turpentine tree (Pistacia terebintus), acknowledged among the monumental plants of Sardinia.

Among other unusual plants, there are Cussonia spicata and the South African Aberia caffra – both unique specimens – growing next to some Ficus pumila that can actually bring their fruits to ripeness. Just as important to remember are the beautiful specimens of Casuarina stricta, Genista monosperma, and a majestic Sterculia diversifolia, which competes in terms of age with a similar specimen found on an embankment.

The beautiful garden can also be seen from afar and features Mexican fan palms (Washingtonia robusta), Canary Island pines (Pinus canariensis), and a compact grove of European fan palms (Chamaerops humilis) – the latter species is mainly found near the secondary entrance, on Viale Merello.

There are also some peculiar and impressive specimens of Bignonia tweedieana and Dolichandra unguis-cati – the latter, a beautiful creeper with yellow flowers, which clings and develops not only on espaliers and pergolas but also on nearby cypresses (Cupressus spp.).

Since the beginning of May 2011, the park has been open also on Sunday evenings, hosting several music performances.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)