Boboli Gardens

Behind the Pitti Palace in Florence lies one of the most famous Italian gardens of the 16th century:

Boboli Gardens. For centuries, it served as a retreat for the Grand Dukes of Tuscany. Today, visitors can admire the carefully designed landscaping, the beautiful sculptures, the hidden grottoes, and much more.

Most of the park was designed starting in 1549 by Eleonora di Toledo, wife of Grand Duke Cosimo de’ Medici. The park, conceived by Eleonora to provide a retreat while still offering a view of the city, is still considered today an exceptional example of garden design. The Boboli Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A true open-air museum

The museum is divided into seven large halls connected by corridors. Michelangelo’s “David” has been on display in the Tribuna Hall since 1873. Also on display here are his four large unfinished sculptures of slaves, created in the 16th century as part of Pope Julius II’s tomb.

A breathtaking view of Florence

The two fountains, with their large mythological figures, are a real visual highlight. The Grotta Grande, completed in 1593, is equally fascinating: built in the Mannerist style, it features three artificially created chambers, lavishly decorated with stalactites, sculptures, and frescoes. The view is also worth admiring; the terraces of the Boboli Gardens offer a breathtaking view of Florence.