Introduction:
Salento is not only known for its natural, cultural and architectural beauty, but also for its enchanting gardens. For centuries, these green spaces have been an integral part of the social and architectural fabric of the region, reflecting the beauty, history and passion of its inhabitants. In this article, we will explore the definition of the garden and the importance of gardens in Salento, from the homes of the historic centers to the sumptuous noble palaces, from the hanging gardens to modern landscape interpretations.
Definition of Garden:
The garden, in the collective imagination, evokes a place of beauty, tranquility and rebirth. But it is much more than just a green space. It is an ever-evolving work of art, a refuge for the mind and spirit, a habitat for flora and fauna, and sometimes even an extension of the identity of those who create and care for it. In Salento, gardens take on different shapes and meanings, but they all share a deep connection with the history and culture of the region.
Gardens in Historic Centers:
The historic centers of Salento are often characterized by narrow paved streets and ancient homes that overlook secret courtyards and secluded gardens. These gardens, small hidden treasures, represent an oasis of tranquility in the heart of lively urban life. With their lush plants, fountains and stone benches, they offer a refuge from the hot summer sun and a meeting place for families and friends. Often there are citrus trees, which in spring with their flowers create an inebriating scent, and numerous succulent plants, resistant to sunny summer days.
Gardens of the Noble Palaces:
The noble palaces of Salento, evidence of the region’s glorious past, are often surrounded by sumptuous Italian gardens. These gardens, designed with mathematical precision and enriched with statues, pergolas and fountains, were conceived as an ideal backdrop for aristocratic life. Today, some of these gardens have remained privately owned, and enriched with swimming pools and other contemporary elements, many others, however, are open to the public, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the past and the timeless beauty of nature.
Roof garden:
Especially in the historic centers of Salento, where the availability of green spaces is more limited, hanging gardens have become a solution for optimizing green space in a densely populated urban environment. Suspended between the walls of ancient cities, this type of gardens, with very ancient origins (around 590 BC), create a unique and evocative environment for anyone who has the privilege of visiting them. An example of this is the Palazzo Ducale of Presicce, which on the terrace boasts the presence of an Italian-style hanging garden of around 10 ares, enriched by a fountain and a belvedere, now always open to the public, as it is property of the Municipality of Presicce – Aquarium.
Gardens of the Villas:
The historic villas of Salento, places of holiday and leisure, are often surrounded by large landscaped gardens, where the art of gardening blends harmoniously with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Here, among centuries-old trees, flower beds and shady paths, you can find corners of serenity and contemplation, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. One of the richest examples is the one we find in the majestic villas of Santa Maria di Leuca, all built in the second half of the 19th century. These homes are mostly still privately owned, but for some years a day has been dedicated to public visits to their parks and gardens.
Modern Garden in Salento:
In contemporary Salento, the art of gardening continually evolves to respond to the needs and challenges of the modern world. Sustainable gardens, urban parks and multifunctional green spaces are emerging as new forms of landscape expression, offering not only aesthetic beauty, but also environmental and social benefits for local communities.
“La Cutura” Botanical Garden:
Finally, we cannot talk about gardens in Salento without mentioning the “La Cutura” Botanical Garden, a hidden jewel located in the Giuggianello countryside, cited among the ten most beautiful gardens in Italy. Founded in 1986, this botanical garden has as its original nucleus an ancient farmhouse from the 1700s and its grounds, and today hosts an extraordinary collection of exotic and endemic plants from all over the world, blending wonderfully with the pre-existing architecture, creating a unique environment of discovery and wonder for botany enthusiasts of all ages.
Conclusions:
Gardens in Salento are much more than simple green spaces; they are living testimonies of the history, culture and timeless beauty of the region. From the ancient homes of the historic centers to the sumptuous noble palaces, from the hanging gardens to modern landscape interpretations, these enchanted places continue to inspire and enchant residents and visitors, offering a taste of the richness and diversity of Salento’s natural and cultural heritage.