Graceful dream or mystical nightmare with open eyes: the park of monsters of Bomarzo a unique place in the world, a mysterious garden that combines alchemy, magic and mythology. This extraordinary place is a monumental complex of 1500 populated by rather particular sculptures.
In the past it has enchanted prominent characters such as Goethe and Salvador Dali, the many different elements present within the park of monsters help make it a unique experience.
Bomarzo has been intrigued for centuries for its supposed mysterious and esoteric architecture, but no scientist has yet found consistency between the various theories and architectures of the park. We discover the genesis of this Mannerist garden and the “monstrous” sculptures that can be admired inside.
The history of the park of monsters of Bomarzo
The park of the monsters of Bomarzo or sacred wood was built around the middle of 1500 at the behest of Pier Francesco Orsini said Neighbor. The first part of the work was completed in 1552. The rocks were carved directly on the spot.
The garden differs considerably from the typical Italian gardens of the time. Over the years there have been numerous studies aimed at explaining the riddle of this particular forest. It can be placed in an intermediate area between magic, art and literature.
The monster park is destined to remain a place full of charm and mystery. The structure was forgotten and abandoned for over 300 years until in 1954 Giancarlo and Tina Severi Bettini began to renovate it and then open it to the public.
Park of monsters of Bomarzo: what to see?
The park always surprises its visitors who will be impressed by its incredible uniqueness. At the entrance of the garden there are two large sphinxes and beyond you meet the first of the statues. It is a colossal sea monster head that represents the legend of Proteus-Glaucus, the fisherman who transformed after eating a magic grass.
Continuing on, you come across a scene depicting a battle between giants. These are Hercules and Caco the son of the god Vulcan. There are many fascinating works that are located inside the park of monsters of Bomarzo. Among the most interesting sculptural groups there are undoubtedly the winged Pegasus, the turtle and also the elephant sculpture. Very interesting is also the statue of the god Neptune. Along the way you come across a very particular building. This is the leaning house, a building that was built over an inclined boulder and that can only be visited through a bridge that connects it with an external wall.
Inside the monster park there are 37 giant sculptures that will surprise anyone who crosses its threshold. The small temple with the dome that traces in miniature the octagonal one of Brunelleschi in Florence gives a little peace to the Sabbath around it.
What to see around the monster park of Bomarzo?
With the occasion of the visit to the park of monsters you can not miss the wonderful historic village of Bomarzo one of the most famous of Lazio. This village is located on rolling hills on the border with Umbria.
Its center has a medieval appearance and still retains interesting buildings such as the Palazzo Orsini. For those who love nature another place near the park of monsters of Bomarzo must visit: is the nature reserve of Monte Casoli. Here you can find many archaeological evidence of Etruscan times.
Another attraction not to be missed is the Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo. It is the largest rock altar in Europe. Also a short distance away is the Necropolis of Santa Cecilia which houses the remains of an early Christian cemetery. The ghost town of Chia is also very interesting.
The ancient village is now completely abandoned and for this reason it is called so. The territories of this part of Lazio offer tourists various opportunities to discover the fascinating past of the region.
Bomarzo Monster Park: where is it?
Bomarzo Monster Park is a 3-hectare garden populated by 37 phenomenal sculptures, fountains, leaning buildings and obelisks. The vision of these unique objects pleasantly upsets the visitor, calculate a half day of time to visit it calmly, especially if you bring children.
The Monster Park of Bomarzo is just 20 kilometres from Viterbo and can be reached via the Viterbo-Orte motorway. For those coming from other cities the best road is the A1 motorway with exit to Attigliano which is located just 4 kilometers from the park. Bomarzo is accessible by bus, but runs from Orte and Viterbo are rare. Inside there is a restaurant and a bar for refreshments.
