Bardini Villa and Garden

Gardens and Museum in Florence

Giardino Bardini
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Txllxt TxllxT

Villa Bardini, also known as Villa Belvedere, is a magnificent villa and garden situated in one of the most picturesque locations in Florence. Originally named Villa Manadora, it was constructed in the 17th century by the architect Gherardo Silvani. Due to its stunning panoramic views, it became known as Villa Belvedere, which translates to “beautiful view.” The villa was built in the style of Casini di Delizia, which were pleasure houses surrounded by decorative gardens and popular among the nobility during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Over the years, Villa Belvedere passed through the hands of various aristocratic and wealthy families until it was acquired by Stefano Bardini in 1913. Stefano Bardini was an art collector and dealer, and he transformed the villa into an exhibition center, open to the public.

The Bardini Garden, which covers approximately 4 hectares, is an integral part of the Boboli Gardens network. It comprises three distinct areas that were once part of the Villa: the central Baroque staircase, the English garden to the west, and the farming area to the east.

The centerpiece of the garden is the grand Baroque staircase, which leads visitors through the terraced garden to a breathtaking overlook offering panoramic views of Florence. The garden is adorned with a variety of beautiful plants and flowers, including wisteria, iris flowers, and Bengal roses. The blossoming of wisteria in spring is particularly spectacular and draws many visitors to the villa.

Annigoni Museum

The Pietro Annigoni Museum is a tribute to one of the most significant artists of the Italian 20th century, Pietro Annigoni. The museum is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the life and works of this emblematic painter who fully matured and developed his artistic talents in the city of Florence.

The museum houses a rich collection of Annigoni’s works, showcasing the different aspects of his artistic journey. Visitors can admire his early self-portraits, which are among his most celebrated pieces. These self-portraits offer a glimpse into Annigoni’s introspective and introspective approach to art.

The museum also features various portraits of his relatives, demonstrating Annigoni’s ability to capture the essence and personality of his subjects. Through his portraits, he was able to convey a sense of humanity and emotion, making each piece a true work of art.

In addition to paintings, the museum displays other forms of Annigoni’s artistic expressions. Visitors can find medals, lithographs, drawings, and objects that were discovered in his studio after his passing. These items provide insights into Annigoni’s creative process and his fascination with different artistic mediums.

Established to honor and preserve the legacy of Pietro Annigoni, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the artist’s life and career. It serves as a cultural and artistic hub for art enthusiasts, students, and the public, giving them the opportunity to appreciate and be inspired by the remarkable works of this prominent Italian painter.

 

The Bardini Villa and Garden appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Visiting Bardini Villa and Garden

Address: Giardino Bardini, Via de' Bardi, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Duration: 1 hours
Official Website

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