Villa comunale (Historic Botanical Garden)

The Villa comunale di Nardò, adjacent to the Castello degli Acquaviva, is one of the most beautiful in Salento – a historic and naturalistic 19th-century botanical garden boasting rare plant species and the Ortus Sallenti, a collection of native floral species.\n\nThe Villa comunale covers 4,000 square meters, offering walks through a small green paradise where very different species coexist. There are tropical plants such as palms, agaves, yuccas, camellias, as well as plants from colder climates like ferns, firs, araucarias, tree-like camellias, rhododendrons, and those from temperate zones, from roses to cacti and jasmine.\n\nAmidst tall palms and mighty trees, you’ll also find a charming little temple supported by six columns, with a majolica-tiled floor in turquoise tones depicting virtues and rest after triumph, crafted by the award-winning Manifattura Paladini.\n\nThe Villa is equipped with lighting and benches and hosts civil weddings, musical, artistic, and cultural events.