Saturday, December 3, 2016

Villa Garzoni



          Designed in the 18th century by Lucca architect Ottaviano Diodati, The historic Garzoni Garden is one of the most beautiful Garden in Italy, represents a happy synthesis between Renaissance geometry and the spectacular character of the Baroque. The garden can be considered a rare example of equilibrium in art, where the green, the terraces and fountains all converge to form a united whole.



          The garden opens as it a splendid by Lucca architect Ottaviano Diodati, the garden opens as if a splendid theater complete with fountains and large baths. The garden rises from a semi-circular parterre through terraced flights of steps to a water cascade, thrusting into the woods. The cascade widens as it ascends the hill, making it more dramatic when seen from below and more extensive when seen from above. A heroic terracotta statue of fame waves gaily from a high point in the garden. Next to the majesty of the Villa Garzoni it would have been impossible not to create a garden so magnificent that it is celebrated still today. The original garden was created in the 17th century along with the villa built by the powerful Garzoni family. The first concrete mention of the villa dates back to 1633. The marquis Romano di Alessandro Garzoni was likely the first architect of the garden in the 1650s. The light and airy atmosphere reaches its apex in the "Bagnetti" area where dames and knights could splash and play amongst mirrors and green labyrinths. 

      



          In the garden grottos, theaters carved out in hedges, statues of mythological creatures, satyrs, female figures, bamboo forests and greenhouses with peacocks. Upon entering the garden we find flower beds, statues and two large circular baths before coming to two majestic staircases characterized by a complex hydraulic system that feeds into the fountains. The staircase is flanked by two statues of females that represent two eternal rivals, Lucca and Florence.


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