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Gardens are usually not at their best in November. At least not where I come from. But then Italy has quite a different climate. And quite different gardens.
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This is Giardino Bardini. I went there a Sunday morning just after the rain had stopped, and the first half hour I had the garden all to myself. I did find the odd iris and a few roses, but luckily there was so much more to this place than flowers.
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Stairs, sculptures, mosaic walls…
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Shapes, greens, meandering paths…
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And views…
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I assume this is the Belvedere Coffeehouse. There was no coffee as the place was closed, but there were happy curly lions…
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… and a spectacular view. What a place! A hidden gem! How come I hadn’t heard of this before? I read the garden has recently been reopened to the public after several years of renovation. And that it dates back to the 13th century…
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There are two entrances to the garden. One at the top and one at the bottom of the steep hill on which it climbs. I started at Via dei Bardi and worked my way uphill, which meant it just got better and better.
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Most of the impressive Baroque stairs were closed for repair. Thank God there were paths as well, easier on the knees!
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I will finish this little garden tour (there is lots more to see!) with two lions for my lion hunting friend. First this fellow who looked very familiar to me. His ancestors are Egyptian, 2300 years old and live in the Vatican museum. They have two cousins in Stockholm at Norrbro, see photo here.
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And finally this adorable and equally ancient looking cat protecting a baby. I wonder what’s the story behind this. Does anybody know, please tell!
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Should you want to read more about the Bardini Garden and its museums or maybe visit them, here is the official website with interesting history and visitor’s information.
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FLORENSICS 