Art & Archaeology Il Parco dei Mostri di Bomarzo by Anne May 4, 2010 written by Anne May 4, 2010 The idea of a sacred grove is something common to early religions in cultures around the world but sometimes a place is sacred for what it means to the person who lives there. This is the case for a peculiar 16th century garden known as Il Parco dei Mostri di Bomarzo. This Monster Park is composed of the sculptural work of Pier Francesco Orsini (1528-1588) and built near the Orsini Castle near Bomarzo, in the province of Viterbo.The park, hidden in the middle of a woods, showcases gigantic, moss-covered mannerist sculptures (sometimes carved out of living rock) which are inspired from such literary works as Orlando Furioso (Ariosto) and Virgil’s Aeneid. Meant to astound and take the viewer’s imagination for a ride, its mix of mythological and fantastic characters was created in honor of Orsini’s beloved wife, Giulia Farnese when she passed away. The Bettini family then lovingly restored the sacred grove during the 1970s.The world “rediscovered” this magical place after the painter Salvator Dalí visited it in 1948. Many others followed and so can you…with a little determination. First take the train to the Attigliano-Bomarzo station and then walk, by foot, 10 kilometers uphill along a highway and then down. Even though the park is open all year, you should call beforehand: (39) (0)761924029. Photos courtesy of Melissa Sandoval. Many thanks!! 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Anne previous post From Palace to Palace (part I) next post Pinchi Organ Transplant Related Posts Graceful Perfection: The Lithe Statue of Italy March 5, 2023 The Fascinating World of Italian Wall Murals March 4, 2023 La Dolce Vita: Exploring the Unique Aesthetics of... March 4, 2023 The Grandeur and History of Italian Theaters February 28, 2023 Exploring Italy’s Iconic Bridges: A Journey Through History,... February 28, 2023 Pisa, Italy: History, Culture and Amazing Sights February 27, 2023 The Fascinating Map of Ancient Italy: Unveiling the... February 26, 2023 The Timeless Beauty of Oil Paintings in Italy February 26, 2023 Art Museums in Italy: A Journey Through History... February 26, 2023 “Postcards from Italy: A Journey Through History, Culture,... February 26, 2023