Parco del Neto: A Romantic Oasis in Calenzano

Parco del Neto, situated in Settimello, Calenzano, offers a serene retreat with historical significance and natural beauty. This eight-hectare park, despite being in a heavily urbanized zone between Calenzano and Sesto Fiorentino, has preserved its unique wetland characteristics. Once part of a larger lacustrine system that served as a natural flood control for the Arno River, the area's transformation into a romantic garden began in the mid-19th century. The park's origins trace back to Marquis Ilario de Boissy, who transformed the marshland into a romantic garden connected to his villa via an underpass. The creation of artificial lakes, fed by natural springs, and the planting of diverse tree species, including lindens, plane trees, and horse chestnuts, contributed to the park's unique character. In the early 20th century, the rare Taxodium distichum, or bald swamp cypress, was introduced, adding to the park's botanical interest. These trees can grow to over 50 meters in height and live for over 1,000 years. Today, Parco del Neto is owned by the Communes of Calenzano and Sesto Fiorentino and serves as a popular urban park. Visitors can explore its network of paths, relax by the lakes, and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and small mammals. The park is open daily from 8 AM until sunset, offering a peaceful escape for locals and tourists alike.