Uncover the Serenity and History of Florence’s Botanical Garden, Giardino dei Semplici

Florence’s Botanical Garden – If your travel itinerary in Florence is in need of a tranquil, open-air retreat that melds cultural richness with serene relaxation, consider a visit to the city’s illustrious Botanical Garden. Known locally as Giardino dei Semplici, this garden isn’t merely a verdant wonder, but it proudly stands as the third oldest botanical garden worldwide!

Discover the Centrally Located Botanical Gem of Florence

One of the garden’s alluring attributes is its prime position in Florence’s urban landscape.

The Botanical Garden nestles in the city’s core, merely a stone’s throw from the iconic Michelangelo’s David housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia.

A casual saunter through the scenic Piazza San Marco, which in itself is a must-see destination in Florence, will lead you to this peaceful sanctuary.

A Glimpse into the Rich History of the Botanical Garden of Florence

Immerse yourself in the depth of the Botanical Garden’s history—a narrative that unfolds just a few years after the epoch-making discovery of America.

While Christopher Columbus embarked on his historic journey in 1492, the land that now accommodates Florence’s Botanical Garden was leased by Cosimo I de’ Medici on December 1, 1545.

This verdant space once belonged to the Monastero di San Domenico in Cafaggio, a spiritual dwelling for Dominican sisters.

Unravel the Legacy Behind the Name “Giardino dei Semplici”

The intriguing name “Giardino dei Semplici” is a nod to the medicinal plants, referred to as “Semplice” in the bygone era, that were cultivated within the garden. The creation of this garden was spearheaded by Niccolò, widely recognized as Il Tribolo.

Historical records from 1684 describe in detail the original plant arrangements and the now-vanished central octagonal basin along with other period decorations. Today, remnants of this past, including the stone bust of Esculapius by Antonio Gino Lorenzi from Settignano (dated around 1570), and the historic gate bearing the Medici family’s emblem, stand testament to the garden’s rich lineage.

Explore the Unique Plant Varieties of the Botanical Garden of Florence

The Botanical Garden features an area dedicated exclusively to edible and medicinal plants. Yet, what draws the most wonder, especially from children, are the unusual species like carnivorous plants, displayed within an aquarium.

The aquatic plants also captivate visitors, as the guide weaves fascinating narratives of nymphs and legends, lending an enchanting flavor to the experience.

Admission to Giardino dei Semplici: Florence’s Botanical Garden

Category	Price	Online Tickets
Adult	€6.00	Book here
Reduced (children aged 6-14)	€3.00	Book here
Family (1-2 adults with max. 4 children aged 6-14)	€13.00	Book here
Free (under 6 years)	€0.00

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Opening Hours of Florence’s Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 19:00. Visitors are advised to enter no later than one hour before closing time.

Please note that the Botanical Garden remains closed on Mondays, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, August 15, and December 25.

(Last updated: July 2023)

Reach Out to Florence’s Botanical Garden

ADDRESS: Via P.A. Micheli 3 – 50121 Firenze

Phone: +39 0552756794/99

Venture into the historical depth and tranquil serenity of the Botanical Garden in Florence. Experience firsthand its diverse plant life and ancient heritage. In the heart of the bustling city, this botanical haven offers an unrivaled immersion in nature’s wonders that every Florence visitor should relish.