The Orto Giardino at the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer on Giudecca is a one-hectare green oasis, home to over 2,500 plants including cypress trees, olive groves, fruit trees, an orchard, a lotus pond, aromatic plants, and a stunning 400-metre-long pergola covered with climbing roses, wisteria, and vines. Hidden within the convent grounds designed by Andrea Palladio, it’s one of Giudecca’s best-kept secrets.
For five centuries, the garden was reserved for the use of the convent, but now, for the first time ever, it’s open to the public. The Venice Gardens Foundation has overseen a comprehensive restoration, making it accessible year-round from Thursday to Saturday.
The garden was affected by the devastating “acqua granda” flood of November 2019, but after a restoration led by expert Paolo Pejrone, it’s regained its former glory. Sustainability is a key feature of the garden, which supports local wildlife, grows vegetables, fruits, honey, and olive oil, and generates renewable energy while recycling waste.
The garden is designed with a series of paths that divide the various plantings. Flower borders, filled with Mediterranean species like lavender, sage, and everlasting flowers, line the walkways. At the centre, a pond with water lilies and lotus flowers adds to the charm, while the southern wall is adorned with flowers for the church altars, including roses, lilies, and dahlias. The fruit trees and olive groves are complemented by shaded spots to rest along the paths.
Other historical spaces, like the old workshops and the place for making “mistrà” liquor, have been turned into exhibition areas, and the garden now features an olive press and honey extraction room. A café by the lagoon serves fresh produce from the garden.
Tickets
Full Price: 12 EUR
Reduced Price: 6 EUR (Residents, children aged 6-12, FAI members)
Free: Clergy, ICOM members, children under 5, disabled persons with one accompanying person, licensed tour guides in Italy.
For more information, visit: www.venicegardensfoundation.org
