Sacro Bosco: The Park of Monsters

Sacro Bosco, often called the Park of the Monsters, is a Mannerist monumental complex located in Bomarzo, in the province of Viterbo. Created in the 16th century by Pier Francesco Orsini, also known as Vicino, the park defies the conventions of traditional Italian gardens with its lack of symmetry and order. Instead, visitors encounter a wild landscape populated with bizarre sculptures, mythological creatures, and enigmatic symbols. Orsini commissioned the park in 1552, possibly as an expression of grief after the death of his wife, Giulia Farnese. The sculptures, carved from the natural rock formations, create a surreal and unsettling atmosphere. Artists like Pirro Ligorio and Simone Moschino contributed to the park's design, which intentionally clashes with classical Renaissance aesthetics. The park was abandoned for a long period, but the Bettini family rediscovered and restored it in the mid-20th century. The park's highlights include the Orcus Mouth, a massive sculpture with the inscription "Ogni pensiero vola" ("Every thought flies"), and the Leaning House, which challenges visitors' sense of balance. The Temple of Eternity, dedicated to Giulia Farnese, offers a contrasting sense of harmony. Other notable sculptures depict mythological figures, monsters, and allegorical scenes, creating a labyrinth of silences, allusions and illusions. The Sacro Bosco is open to visitors daily, offering a fascinating blend of art, history, and nature.