History
The garden, located on the slopes of Etna, extends for about 4 hectares. It is strongly characterized by the presence of numerous lava outcrops dating back to an ancient flow (1.444
D.C.), which have allowed the creation of spectacular glimpses of a rock garden with, among other essences, Agaves, Yuccae and Dasylirion, Encephalartos in variety.
The strong difference in height between the different areas of the garden is one of the reasons for its greatest charm.
The system of ancient lava stone terraces, in fact, while recalling the tradition of citrus gardens and vineyards present throughout the Etna area, is used to create lush environments, in which a great variety of essences from all over the world are inserted with extreme naturalness.
Oreopanax peltatum (North America, Mexico), Chorisia speciosa (South America), Dracaena draco (Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands, Madeira), just to name a few, some species introduced to Italy by the owner himself (e.g. Brachychiton rupestris, Australia).
And then the great passion of landscape designer Ettore Paterṇ del Toscano: palm trees. The park is home to over 20 varieties.
The garden was created in the late 1950s and has been continuously evolving ever since. The latest, in chronological order, is the collection of succulent plants that includes over 30 varieties of specimens.
In the central part of the property is the Etna forest rich in native species that the designer has preserved as evidence of the ancient vocation of the place.
A new Urban Park has recently been created that hosts a collection of citrus fruits, sensory paths, a vegetable garden and an orchard, an amphitheater to host shows and concerts, and an educational greenhouse. The parking lot has ample parking and wifi.
