In the heart of Veneto, just a few kilometres from the spa town of Abano Terme, lies one of Italy's most beautiful garden masterpieces - the Giardino di Valsanzibio.
The garden was created in the 17th century as part of the lavish country estate of the Barbarigo family. Count Giovanni Francesco Barbarigo promised at the time that if Venice escaped the plague, he would build a garden that would be a place of beauty as well as a spiritual journey. The garden was therefore not only created to please the eye, but also as a spiritual allegory of human life.
At first glance, you will be captivated by the beautiful Baroque composition with water features, sculptures and perfectly cut greenery. The water flowing through the garden symbolises purification and the passage of time. Elegant fountains, mysterious corners, a labyrinth and long water channels create the feeling that every element has its own meaning.
One of the biggest attractions is the green labyrinth, one of the oldest and largest in Europe. To walk through this intricate maze is to embark on a symbolic journey of discovery, where each step requires patience, courage and the ability to make decisions.
The garden is full of symbols that tell the story of human destiny, temptation and spiritual renewal. Statues of gods, mystical inscriptions and elaborate symbolism turn a visit to the garden into a philosophical walk. In the centre of the garden, the Fountain of Time awaits visitors, reminding them of the inexorable course of life, while next to it stands the statue of Death, which guards the end of this journey.
The Giardino di Valsanzibio is not just a historical monument, it is a living work that continues to inspire with its beauty even after centuries.
When you go here, don't expect an ordinary trip. It's a journey that may make you think about your own life, the time we have been given, and the beauty that surrounds us - if we learn to see it.
