Gardens of Bomarzo, Sculpture garden and historical park museum in Bomarzo, Italy.
The Gardens of Bomarzo form a historical park in Bomarzo with more than thirty stone figures carved from the volcanic rock of the surrounding area. The sculptures are scattered throughout the wooded grounds and include a reclining giant, a fighting dragon, and a tilted small building.
Prince Pier Francesco Orsini commissioned architect Pirro Ligorio to design this garden in 1547 after the death of his wife Giulia Farnese. The work continued for several decades and the project fell into neglect after Orsini's death, until it was rediscovered in the 20th century.
The stone carvings show scenes from Greek and Roman mythology featuring figures like Hercules, Proteus, and Echidna. Visitors read the inscriptions on the pedestals and follow a path full of riddles and references to Renaissance themes.
The park opens daily from 9 in the morning until sunset and is accessible via paved paths that are also suitable for wheelchairs. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes, as some sections may be uneven and the paths run through wooded terrain.
Two sphinx figures stand at the entrance and bear poetic inscriptions that guide the visitor through a symbolic journey of philosophical and spiritual contemplation. One of the sculptures shows a giant open mouth with a stone room inside that contains a small table and seating.
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