It became one of the favourite residences of Cosimo I, who took special interest in the garden. A year after the young Duke's rise to power, in 1538, the garden was planned according to a complex symbolical design in which the statues, fountains and grottoes celebrated Cosimo's new status.
The villa itself is not open to the public, but visitors may enjoy the splendid garden with its magnificent range of citrus and other rare plants, antique and Renaissance statues. Particularly fascinating is the Grotto, with animals carved in different types of stone and marble, which one must imagine with its original fountains and water jets.
Visiting hours:
Daily:
8.15 - 17,00 (November - February)
8.15 - 18,00 (March and October)
8.15 - 19,00 (April, May and September)
8.15 - 20,00 (June - August)
Closed on the 2nd and 3rd Monday of each month,New Year's Day, May 1st and Christmas Day
Free admission
Information and Booking:
Contact Firenze Musei
Tel: +39 055294883
Disabled persons: the gardens are not easily accessible to persons in wheelchairs.
Schools: admission is free of charge. Booking is compulsory and free of charge. Firenze Musei - Tel: +39 055290112
The list of visiting students and teachers on the institution's letterhead stationery must be presented at the ticket office. Educational assistance for Italian school visits can be arranged with Firenze Musei at the time of booking.
Cost: Euro 3.00 per student
CONTACT
How to contact the Garden
Tel: +39 055452691
Tel: +39 0552388611
Fax: +39 0552388613
Source: www.polomuseale.firenze.it
