Ninfa gardens: a must-see place to visit in Italy
The most enchanting and romantic garden in the world, Ninfa, is a secret gem in Italy. A fascinating sense of mystery pervades il giardino di Ninfa, built among the ruins of a medieval village. The borgo is over an hour drive from downtown Rome, in the Lazio region, and accessing it is extremely difficult. Ninfa garden’s operating hours are selective, therefore to ensure entry, you should book in advance. In spite of that, and possibly because of Ninfa Gardens’ limited entrance hours, visiting it, is a bucket list experience. Together, in this post, we will discover why. Moreover, you will find useful information about how to visit Ninfa gardens.
The history of the garden of Ninfa
The village of Ninfa derives its name from the Roman era temple dedicated to the Nymphs, goddesses of spring waters. During the Middle Ages, the village belonged to the papacy. Several families fought over the control of this borgo until the Caetani family won in 1298. After a century of prosperity, Ninfa was destroyed in 1382, as a result of faction-fighting, and villagers escaped. The borgo remained abandoned for 600 years, with seldom population coming back from the 16th century.
For this reason, the German historian Gregorovius, in the 1880s, defined it as the “ Pompeii of the Middle Ages.” Moreover, it wasn’t until the nineteenth century that the Caetani family restored the garden following the Anglo-Saxon style. Works finished under the descendent Leila Caetani (dead in 1977) with the introduction of more botanical species. Moreover, they established a foundation that manages the gardens and the Caetani castle in Sermoneta to this day.
Ninfa gardens
Meandering around Ninfa gardens is like being immersed in a garden atmosphere of time past. This natural oasis houses a rich history of architecture, nature, and Italian annals. Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest of Ninfa’s seven churches, houses the only fresco remaining in its original location. The others were moved to the Caetani Castle in Sermoneta. Also, Alexander III was elected pope in 1159 within its walls.
Ninfa benefits from a rare microclimate and ecosystem because it sits between limestone mountains and the alluvial Pontine plain. As its name recalls, with four natural springs, Ninfa’s water is of vital importance, balancing its delicate system. There are 1300 botanical species within the eight acres (3.2 ha) including Japanese maples and many tropical plants. Over 152 different species of birds inhabit the varied vegetation. These elements combine to make this garden a unique artistic representation of nature’s lush beauty.
Why you need to visit Ninfa Gardens
Ninfa, a historic location in beautiful ruin, is a beautiful garden and a rare example of a complete medieval town. Strolling around the park, you can admire the double walls and remains of an ancient castle, churches, municipal buildings, and private residences. A small path of waters, the Ninfa river, flows along the giardino, contributing to giving a picturesque vibe to the garden. The principal edifices are not all in good condition; however, their abandoned state contributes to the mysterious effect made palatable while wandering Ninfa.
What Giardino di Ninfa | Where Via Ninfina, 68, 04012 Cisterna di Latina LT, Italy
Ninfa gardens opening times
Given its delicate environmental balance, il giardino di Ninfa can be visited only on limited days of the year. Visits usually begin at the end of March and run through the beginning of November. The Roffredo Caetani Foundation releases in January the opening times to access the garden of Ninfa.
What to know before visiting Ninfa gardens
The entrance fee to access the garden of Ninfa costs 15 euro per adult and older kids. Children under the age of 12 enter for free. Moreover, visitors with a disability can pay € 8,00 on arrival € 8,00.
Unfortunately, in the area, there aren’t many up-to-date facilities. Close to the exit, there are a few souvenir shops and a toilet block. Food is not available on the premises. However, before entering the garden, there is a truck in the parking lot that sells drinks and limited snacks.
What Garden of Ninfa | Location Via Ninfina, 68, 04012 Cisterna di Latina LT, Italy | You need to book in advance on the official website
How to get to the Garden of Ninfa
The more efficient and convenient way to reach this mysterious garden is through private transportation. The closest train station is quite far, and the bus system doesn’t operate an effective connection. Consequently, my recommendation is to rent a car and drive. Moreover, upon arrival, there are plenty of free parking spaces available for cars, coaches and campers. Alternatively, you could take a train from Rome to Latina and from there take a taxi. However, it might be difficult to find a cab for your return trip. And although it’s wonderful getting lost in time within Ninfa, I do suggest a plan of return.
Where to eat near Ninfa gardens
Except for a food truck selling beverages and packed snacks, there aren’t any food options at the garden of Ninfa. However, in the area around there are a few good options. In detail at a 7 minutes driving distance from the garden you can eat on a farm. The restaurant, L’Oca, serves locally produced grilled vegetables, meat and many varieties of pasta. Another outstanding option in the area is eating at Il Piccolo Ducato. In a rustic ambiance, it offers Mediterranean dishes, including meat and fish.
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