In Florence, Orti Dipinti is the first community garden in the city. An urban Eden frequented by chefs, artists and botany enthusiasts, where you can learn the secrets of Mother Nature or spend an original evening surrounded by medicinal herbs and rare plants.
Born from the conversion of the old athletics track of Borgo Pinti, traces of which can still be seen among the lush green islands, the urban garden was created in 2013 by the will of Giacomo Salizzoni, deus ex machina of the project as well as an eclectic architect, photographer and designer.
In love with Nature and its infinite virtues, Giacomo has created a multifaceted space, perfect for a regenerating walk in the greenery, which during the day is dedicated to the cultivation of the most diverse botanical species, whilst in the evening and on weekends transforms into an evocative ” green arena” hosting a summer schedule of events, aperitifs and literary presentations.
Our goal is to stimulate the creation of a new alliance with Nature within an urban ecosystem.
(Giacomo Salizzoni)
The focus of the project revolves around the themes of botany and horticulture, nutrition and sustainability, allowing curious people, enthusiasts and professionals to deepen their knowledge. This happens “in the field”, helping, as members or volunteers, to cultivate the vegetable garden and take care of the plants, or by participating in thematic lessons or workshops to learn how to create vegetable soaps, aromatic salts or herbal teas.
The heart of the space, entirely designed and created by Giacomo himself, is a large wooden table, protected by a green pergola “roof”, which winds along the old track surrounded by green islands. At its edge, an evocative open air stage has been created where the events and talks organized by Orti Dipinti take place.
Dozens of gems can be discovered while walking among the wooden tubs that house plants, flowers and fragrant herbs. From the classic aromatic ones to the most original varieties of mint, from those with the scent of pineapple, chocolate or green apple, to the delight of the most renowned chefs who “secretly” get their supplies here.
In fact, Orti Dipinti does not deal with direct sales but rather provides space and skills to cultivate new botanical species of interest. In fact, there is no shortage of many varieties of succulent plants, fruit trees, vegetables and exotic varieties for true connoisseurs.
During the summer, Orti Dipinti becomes an exclusive theater for cultural and fashion events, DJ sets, brunches and original aperitifs, transforming itself into a privileged lounge for beautiful Florentine evenings. A truly unmissable address for those who want to immerse themselves in a green oasis and connect with nature, while remaining in the city center!
And before leaving, don’t forget to leave your message on the gratitude tree, a precious gesture of awareness to always carry in your heart.
The Secret
Among the many natural wonders, here there is also a plant that truly has something magical. Known as the Virgin Mary’s Herb, it is a succulent plant with a thousand healing virtues which, used properly, creates real “miracles”. Just think that, by collecting a stem during St. John’s Eve and locking it in a cupboard without water, it is even able to survive until the following year.
Useful Info
Orti Dipinti
Borgo Pinti 76
50132 Firenze
Email: info@ortidipinti.it
For updating on timetables, workshops and events we recommend following the Instagram page @ortidipinti
