The gorgeous Giardino della Kolymbetra in Agrigento
As summer temperatures soar, families are seeking solace in the shade of Italy’s most beautiful parks.
A new competition has been designed to recognize the cultural and environmental importance of Italian parks and gardens. Out of the top 10 parks, one winner will be selected by the Italian Foundation FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) as the "Parco più bello d'Italia 2011" (Italy's Most Beautiful Park).
The 10 finalists selected in the competition each exhibit a stunning blend of architecture and agriculture. The best parks in Italy blend beautiful manmade settings with impeccably tended gardens and grounds.
The list of best parks in Italy are the perfect alternative to the seaside beauty of Italy's best beaches.
The 10 Most Beautiful Parks and Gardens according to Fondo Ambiente Italiano
GIARDINI BOTANICI HANBURY
Corso Montecarlo 46, Ventimiglia (Imperia)
VILLA DURAZZO PALLAVICINI
Via Pallavicini 11, Genova Pegli (Genova)
VITTORALE DEGLI ITALIANI
Via Vittoriale 12, Gardone Riviera (BS)
VILLA MEDICEA DI CASTELLO
Via di Castello 47, Firenze
VILLA GAMBERAIA
Via del Rossellino 72, Settignano (Firenze)
VILLA LANTE
Via Jacopo Barozzi 71, Bagnaia (Viterbo)
GIARDINO DI NINFA
Via Ninfina 68
Cisterna di Latina (Latina)
VILLA RUFOLO
Piazza Duomo 1, Ravello (Salerno)
VILLA SAN MICHELE
Viale Azel Munthe 34, Anacapri (Napoli)
GIARDINO DELLA KOLYMBETRA
Valle dei Templi, Agrigento
Did your favorite park make the list?
