Boboli Gardens, Florence

Gardens in Florence

The Boboli Gardens in Florence are a magnificent green space and a true blend of nature and art, created by the Medici family. This Italian-style garden is one of the largest and most elegant in the world, featuring sculptures from various periods, ranging from the Roman age to the 17th century. Over the centuries, prominent architects like Vasari, Ammannati, and Bernardo Buontalenti worked on the Boboli Gardens, resulting in a diverse and captivating array of styles. As you explore the gardens, you’ll encounter a multitude of surprises at every turn.

The journey begins at the Amphitheatre, where a grand Egyptian obelisk from Luxor stands, placed there in 1789. Moving forward, you’ll find the Neptune Fountain, known as “Nettuno del Forcone,” featuring a depiction of the sea god holding a trident, created by Stoldo Lorenzi.

At the highest point of the hill stands the powerful Statue of Abundance, where Giambologna drew inspiration from Joanna of Austria, the wife of Francesco I.

Continuing on, you’ll reach the Viottolone, a majestic boulevard flanked by cypress trees and statues, leading to piazzale dell’Isolotto. Here, Giambologna’s Fountain of Oceanus commands attention, surrounded by sculptures representing the Nile, Euphrates, and Ganges rivers, as well as other statues depicting various themes.

Other highlights in the gardens include the pastel green Kaffeehaus, established by the Lorraine family in 1775, the Limonaia, and the Palazzina della Meridiana, housing the Museum of Costume and Fashion.

Finally, the visit culminates at the famous Grotta Grande, a marvelous amalgamation of painting, sculpture, and architecture, worked on by Buontalenti from 1583 to 1593. This enchanting space once housed Michelangelo’s renowned incomplete sculptures, the Prisoners or Slaves (now displayed in the Accademia Gallery). The Boboli Gardens are a must-visit destination, offering a captivating blend of history, art, and natural beauty.

The Boboli Gardens, Florence appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Visiting Boboli Gardens, Florence

Hours:

Monday to Sunday Opening 8.15

Closing 4.30 pm in January, February, November, December, 5.30 pm in March and October (with Standard Time), 6.30 pm in March (with Daylight Savings Time), April, May, September, October (with Daylight Savings Time). 7.10 pm June, July, August

Price:

€11

Address: Boboli Gardens, Piazza de' Pitti, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy

Duration: 20 minutes

Official Website