Merano: The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle
The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, also known as the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff, are a popular botanical garden located in the town of Merano, in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy. The garden is situated on a steep hillside overlooking the town, and covers an area of approximately 12 hectares.
The garden was designed by landscape architect and botanist, Countess Maria Hélène von Drechsel, who began work on the garden in 1850. Today, the garden features a diverse range of plant species from around the world, including rare and exotic plants, as well as a number of local and regional plant species.
The garden is divided into several themed areas, including an alpine garden, a water garden, a sun garden, and a forest garden. Visitors can also explore a number of greenhouses and other structures, such as the birdhouse and the aviary, which are home to a variety of bird species.
One of the highlights of the garden is the spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and the town of Merano, which can be enjoyed from several points throughout the garden. In addition to the plant life, visitors can also enjoy a number of art installations, sculptures, and other works of art throughout the garden.
Overall, the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are a must-see destination for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing and inspiring day out in the beautiful surroundings of the South Tyrol region.