The garden is located in the city of Padova, a ten minute train ride from Venice, and is a part of the University of Padova. One of the oldest existing medicinal and botanical gardens, the Orto Botanico is quite different from any other garden that I have seen, and is by far the oldest. I was interested to see that this garden appeared to be set up more for education, study, and use, rather than for visual beauty. Though within this structure a natural beauty was present. Each plant was carefully separated and labeled, with the Fennel occupying it's own little plot of land next to a Chinese Lantern.
I could have spent hours inspecting every single plant. I visited the garden a bit late in the season, but there was still plenty to see. Like the little guy below!
When I first arrived in Padova, a strong fragrance made it's way down the narrow streets from the balconies high above. It was a smell that resembled peaches, perfume, and flowers. When I arrived at the garden, the fragrance was stronger than ever, and just as I was about to leave, I was able to locate the source. Olea Fragrans.....a relative of the olive!
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