A Roman Garden in the Heart of Chianti

The Viridarium is a special gift from our sister estate, The Newt in Somerset. Originally created for the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in London, this installation offers a small, precious journey through time and pays tribute to the archaeological research carried out in the Greve in Chianti area.

But what exactly is a viridarium?

Viridarium is a Latin word referring to an ornamental garden in ancient Rome. The term comes from viridis, meaning green, literally, a green place.

In Roman villas — especially those in the suburbs or in aristocratic residences — the viridarium was an area of the garden designed as a peaceful retreat to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

It was a place dedicated to contemplation of nature, to rest, and to conversation.

Many examples of frescoes depicting viridaria can be found in Pompeii and Herculaneum and some archaeologists still use the term today when referring to these visual representations.

But why a Roman garden at the Fattoria di Vignamaggio?

This Viridarium is a gift, or loan, from our sister estate, The Newt in Somerset, creator of this unique installation for the Chelsea Flower Show, one of the world’s most prestigious flower and gardening events. This event is organised annually by the leading British authority on the art of gardening, The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The installation is also meant to serve as a small tribute to archaeological research conducted over the past 30 years by the San Michele Group, supported by the Florence Archaeological Superintendence and the Municipality of Greve in Chianti.

In fact, not many know that in the Upper Greve Valley significant archaeological discoveries have been made, revealing ancient Roman farms and settlements.

The Synaesthesia of the Viridarium

A historical journey with audio guide, divided into nine stages, will lead you into a small oasis — a garden enclosed by colonnades, featuring fountains, water features, ornamental and medicinal plants.
You’ll be immersed in the scents of over 500 plants, enjoying a moment of complete tranquillity, accompanied by the gentle sound of flowing water and the birdsong of those who’ve found shelter among the tiles of the Viridarium.
All around you lies the beauty of pastures, rolling vineyards, and the timeless charm of the Vignamaggio estate.

Plan Your Visit

Entry to the Viridarium and use of the audio guide are free of charge.
You can visit the Viridarium from Wednesday to Sunday, between 10:30 am and 6:30 pm.
After your visit, enjoy a well-earned break at the Ristoro della Fattoria, where you can savour one of the dishes created by our chefs.

To book your table, call +39 055 8546669.

Ave!