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Parco del Neto: A Romantic Oasis in Calenzano

Discover Parco del Neto in Calenzano: A historic romantic garden with tranquil lakes, diverse trees, and a peaceful escape from city life.

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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.

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's grassy areas or at the available picnic tables.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the park's paths and exploring its natural features.
  • Check local announcements for community events, art exhibitions, and seasonal festivities held in the park.
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A brief summary to Parco del Neto

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Florence, take the train from Firenze S.M.N. station to Pratignone station in Calenzano. The train journey takes approximately 22 minutes, with tickets costing between €1 and €4. From Pratignone station, Parco del Neto is approximately a 25-minute walk. Alternatively, several bus lines connect Calenzano to Florence. Bus lines 2, 4, and 57 stop near Calenzano. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Walking

    From the center of Calenzano, Parco del Neto can be reached by walking along Via Vittorio Emanuele. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and takes around 30 minutes. The park entrance is located directly off Via Vittorio Emanuele.

  • Car

    If driving from central Florence, take the A1 motorway and exit at Calenzano-Sesto Fiorentino. Follow the signs towards Calenzano and merge onto Via A. Gramsci. Continue straight for about 1.5 km, then turn right onto Via Vittorio Emanuele. Follow this road, and you will reach Parco del Neto in approximately 10 minutes. Parking is available near the park entrance. Parking costs vary, with hourly rates around €2 and daily fees up to €20 in some areas.

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