Gardens of Bomarzo: Hidden Treasures of Italy
If you are planning a vacation to Italy, you are probably browsing the must-see attractions the country has to offer. With its well-known sculptures and monuments, you will be sure to find a variety of information on attractions such as the Colosseum, The Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the Trevi Fountain. These are just a few of the monuments that attract many tourists from all around the world to this beautiful country. And while we agree, these are definitely some locations that one should visit during your trip, keep reading for a lesser known place we believe is worth visiting as well.
Gardens of Bomarzo
Looking to escape the bustling cities of Italy? Head to the Grove of Monsters also known as The “Gardens of Bomarzo.” The Grove of Monsters is nestled in a small hill town of Bozarzo, an hour’s drive from Rome. This mystical environment resembles that of a somewhat grotesque fairyland. The Grove of Monsters is composed of sculptures created in the 1500’s by Prince Vicinio Orsini, in memory of his late wife. These sculptures were built to reflect his inner state of mind after her passing.
You will find sculptures of Hannibal’s war elephants, a winged mermaid, a larger than life tortoise, a dragon, and a leaning house among others. The many monstrous statues appear to have been strewn almost randomly about the area, sol per sfogare il Core (“just to set the heart free”) as one inscription on an obelisk says. Everything in the park seems to want to prove that life and love always triumph.
Want to learn about other must-see attractions Italy has to offer? Visit The Gardens of Bomarzo and Italy with Celtic Tours!
