Have you ever dreamed of visiting a corner of paradise set in an urban context, where history, art and nature coexist in perfect harmony? Welcome to the enchanted world of Villa Bardini and Bardini Garden in Florence, an experience that takes your breath away for its extraordinary combination of historical and natural beauty.
From this rare green jewel box, you can enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view of Florence, with its trail of Renaissance bell towers and golden domes. And when the garden bursts into life in spring, the cityscape is further enriched with clumps of wisteria in bloom. If you are planning a visit to Florence, put a stop here on your agenda: it is only a 15-minute walk from Ponte delle Grazie and is one of the city’s most precious gems.
Villa Bardini and Bardini Garden: Florence’s Secret Gem of History, Architecture and Seasonal Blooms
In the folds of time, the history of Villa Bardini dates back to medieval times, with the Mozzi family as the first custodians of this Florentine jewel.
Initially, the complex was characterised by a main palace and a fortified garden, ending in a terraced area used for agriculture. Close to the Mozzi family was Giovan Francesco Manadori, the creator of the nearby Villa Manadora.
After several changes of ownership, the two mansions and their respective gardens merged in 1839, including a series of fascinating elements such as a Baroque staircase, an Anglo-Chinese garden and various additional architectural spaces.
Villa Bardini underwent various vicissitudes until 1913, when Stefano Bardini, a famous collector and art dealer, bought it.
In the new millennium, the property was sold to the Ente Cassa di Risparmio di Firenze, which currently manages it through the Fondazione Parchi Monumentali Bardini Peyron.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BAROQUE STAIRCASE IN THE BARDINI GARDEN
When Stefano Bardini acquired the villa in the early 20th century, the garden was already a central element of the complex. However, Bardini intended to turn it into a kind of open-air art gallery.
The Baroque staircase is the centrepiece of the Bardini garden, from which there is a spectacular view of Florence. Bardini pursued an eclectic yet coherent approach, mixing ancient elements with modern ones, including statues, vases and stone furniture, making every corner of the garden a place of visual pleasure and spiritual peace.
RESTORATION IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM
Known as the ‘Garden of Three Gardens’, this green space is an amalgamation of styles and eras, and its restoration in the early 2000s aimed to preserve and at the same time innovate.
Elements such as water features, an Anglo-Chinese garden, waterfalls and shell pools have been beautifully restored. In addition, new elements were introduced, such as a wisteria arbour and a peony garden, further enriching the landscape.
THE BLOSSOMING OF THE WISTERIA: A MASTERPIECE OF NATURE
Giardino Bardini is famous for its wisteria flower show. This enchanting shrub, which flowers in mid-April, offers a rich variety of shades ranging from lilac to pink.
From the garden, one can enjoy a fascinating view of the historical centre of Florence, framed by a riot of scents and pastel colours. This wonder of nature is one of the many reasons why Villa and Giardino Bardini is a must-visit if you are in Florence.
Villa Bardini and Giardino Bardini are not just a break from the urban hustle and bustle, but a cultural and sensory experience that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who visit them. So, when you have to choose what to see in Florence and when you find yourself in the cradle of the Renaissance, take a moment to explore this treasure trove of historical and natural beauty. It will be a journey through time, space and soul.