Breathtaking views and astounding stone fountain designs are enough to make Villa d’Este a must-see garden in Italy, but add to that its long history and influence in garden history design, and you have, wrapped up in one garden, the essence of Italy.

Villa d’Este is a World Heritage site. The magnificent tiered gardens and fountains date from the second half of the 16th century, when Cardinal Ippolito d’Este commissioned archaeologist and architect Pirro Ligorio. The result was one of the first Italian designs to incorporate the house and garden as a whole. In addition, the hillside became an incredible scene of moving water. Water is integral to Italian garden design, and Ligorio used it to great effect. He created the Terrace of the Hundred Fountains, and also a stone pipe organ that makes its hauntingly musical sounds with wind and water. The organ ceased to work because of calcification in the stone, but it has been restored.

Villa d’Este is a romantic, dramatic spectacle that celebrates all that is Italian.

Written by  Marty Wingate.

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