Botanical Garden of Viterbo

Viterbo's botanical garden is hidden away and practically unknown, but that just means you won't have to fight the crowds when you visit!. Located in the Bullicame area, the site was a sacred meeting place for the Etruscans, who held an annual gathering of the rulers there. Its importance has been noted through the millennia, with the Romans as well, and the Middle Ages, because of the thermal waters present there. In fact, the Bullicame springs were cited by Dante in his epic poem.

The botanical garden is a cooperative effort between the University and the City of Viterbo and is more than a mere park: it combines science, museum, university studies and garden all in one. You can enjoy the plants, but also learn about the unique ecosystem, the calcareous soil and mineral waters, the flow that creates ponds and channels, and crafts from plants grown there. The "useful plants" area includes flax, cotton, canapa and yute. There is a rose garden, a palm grove, medicinal herbs, Mediterranean scrub, trees, orchids, and exotic plants.

A visit is sure to be interesting, and you're close to the hot springs for a nice soak, as well!

For more information, visit the Orto Botanico di Viterbo website

The garden is open from 9:00 AM til 12:00 PM weekdays. In spring it is also open on Sundays.