The Rasponi Garden (Giardino Rasponi) in Ravenna is also called the “Garden of Forgotten Herbs”. The garden lies behind massive walls, half-hidden between the Cathedral and the Battistero Neoniano. It is a pleasant place to take a rest during a busy day.
Rasponi Garden Ravenna
Useful information
The address of the Rasponi Garden is Piazzetta Paolo Serra (tel. +39 0544 34764). The nearest bus stop is Piazza Kennedy (line 70). Opening times: The Giardino Rasponi is open every day except Sunday from 09:00 to 12:30.. Ticket price: Free.
History and description
The entrance gate to the Giardino delle Erbe Dimenticate was designed by Camillo Morigia. Thanks to the wide wall surrounding the garden, the place can rightly be called an oasis of peace in the hustle and bustle of the city itself.
Various rare and precious herbs are displayed in special flowerbeds in the typical 19th-century garden. These flowerbeds are located around a cast-iron fountain, also from the 19th century.
Some herbs grown in the garden were used by grocers in the Middle Ages, while others still enrich the Mediterranean diet on a daily basis. Examples include the Persian-derived hyssop, coltsfoot, hops, mallow thorn and balsam wormwood.
From the garden there is also a nice view of the cathedral dome.