Venice is famous and admired by visitors from around the world for its canals, bridges, breathtaking views, and superb architecture, but few know that the Serenissima also holds wonderful gardens, true oases of tranquility immersed in history and art. Among the most fascinating and absolutely worth visiting are the Royal Gardens and the Biennale Gardens, places rich in curiosities and hidden corners, ideal for those who want to discover the green and lesser-known side of this unique city.
A Secret Corner in the Heart of Venice: The Royal Gardens
Located near one of the symbols of the Serenissima, the very central Piazza San Marco, the Royal Gardens are one of the most evocative places in Venice. This green space was created by the will of Napoleon Bonaparte at the beginning of the 19th century, when Venice was still dominated by the French, as part of an imperial plan to give Venice a garden that offered a space of relaxation for the court and nobility.
Fun Facts about the Royal Gardens
- After decades of neglect, the Royal Gardens were recently restored and reopened to the public in 2019, thanks to an important recovery project funded by private foundations.
- The garden is connected to Piazza San Marco by a bridge built during the Napoleonic era, offering a unique view of the city.
- Despite their proximity to Venice’s most appreciated and visited spots, the Royal Gardens are actually not very crowded by tourists, making them an ideal stop for those seeking peace and quiet in the heart of the city.
Inside the Royal Gardens, you can admire a wide variety of Mediterranean plants and historic trees, such as the majestic wisteria that frames the central pergola. Here, you can stroll along quiet paths, sit in the shade of ancient plants, or enjoy a view of the lagoon from a privileged and, above all, less crowded angle. Your photos here will be truly unique!
Biennale Gardens: Art and Nature in Symbiosis
In the Castello district are the Biennale Gardens, also known as Napoleonic Gardens. As the name suggests, this place was also created by the will of Napoleon and stretches over a large area, representing one of the most important artistic venues in Venice, as it hosts the famous Biennale of Art and Architecture.
Fun Facts about the Biennale Gardens
- The Biennale Gardens have hosted the world’s oldest international art event, the Venice Biennale, since 1895. Every two years, artists from all over the world present their works in a series of pavilions dedicated to the participating countries.
- The gardens house over 30 national pavilions, each designed by renowned international architects. Among the most iconic are the Russian Pavilion, designed by Aleksej Ščusev, and the Belgian Pavilion, created by Léon Sneyers.
- During the Biennale, the artistic installations interact with the surrounding nature, creating a unique immersive experience. Strolling through the greenery of the gardens means encountering sculptures, contemporary works, and live performances, all integrated into a natural setting.
Within the Biennale Gardens, you can admire wonderful century-old trees and colorful flowers. But it is during the off-season of the Biennale that the gardens offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for a quiet walk away from the tourist crowds.
Useful Tips for Visiting
- Opening Hours and Access: The Royal Gardens are freely accessible and open year-round, while the Biennale Gardens can also be visited outside the exhibitions, but entry during shows requires a ticket.
- Best Times to Visit: Spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best times to explore these gardens, with perfect temperatures and the most vivid colors.
- Special Events: If you’re in Venice during the Biennale, take advantage of the visit to the Gardens to immerse yourself in international contemporary art.
- How to Get There: The Royal Gardens are just a short walk from Piazza San Marco, easily reachable on foot. The Biennale Gardens, however, are farther from the center but can be conveniently reached by vaporetto, getting off at the “Giardini” stop.
Conclusion
The Hidden Gardens of the Serenissima are a true gem in the heart of Venice, spaces where nature, history, and art come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a lover of nature in urban settings or passionate about history and art, these places offer a unique experience, adding a new dimension to the traditional visit of Venice.
