The Italian Renaissance and Gardens

The Italian Renaissance, famously known as the period of revitalization following the indolent middle ages, came about through a series of shifts in thought refocusing popular perception to a more outwardly oriented mindset.

The foundation of Renaissance thought rests in the emergence of humanism and natural theology. The latter focused on reason and experience and tried to harmonize knowledge between the church and the laboratory. While the former stressed returning to the classics to develop and understanding that the human experience was superior to that of the divine.

Florence Cathederal - excelent example of Italian Renaissance Architecture (sourcehttps://www.thinglink.com/scene/568923873861435394)

These new ideas translated into a myriad of new developments across all facets of life. One of the most notable changes brought about by the Italian Renaissance was the return to roman architecture. In general, the period emphasized the importance of the classics, thus making the reemergence of Roman art and architecture a default choice, being that it is inspired by Grecian art. This change in design was a major transition from the inwardly focused medieval architecture. Italian Renaissance architecture was open and occupied with beauty.

Plan of Villa d'Este gardens - the hallmark Italian Renaissance Garden (source: http://cdn.in-italia.dk/pi/56/b/56133_b.jpg)

The new developments in architecture paved the way for the emergence of the Italian Renaissance garden. The renaissance garden would go on to embody the ideas of the third nature; the idea that the garden is a combination of art and divine creation. At this time, it was believed that although nature was divine, it could be improved upon.   

The symbolic eagle rests atop the fountain (source:https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/Villa_d'Este_01.jpg)

As a result of these ideas, beautiful gardens began to accompany magnificent pieces of architecture along the Italian peninsula. These gardens were known for their axial alignment and dramatic terraces. Villa d’Este embodies many of the signature attributes of a Renaissance garden featuring both of these characteristics. Furthermore, gardens such as Villa d’Este, were enhanced with sensational water features and impressive plantings. Gardens were also dotted with symbols, for example at Villa d’Este there is a prominent display of an eagle, which symbolizes both nobility and the Este coat of arms. Such gardens also showcased areas for outdoor relaxation and entertaining, for example, it was common to have outdoor dining tables featuring canals to keep food and feet cool.

The hallmark traits of the Italian Renaissance allowed for such a style of gardens to blossom out of a new age of thought, art, and architecture. Today gardens, like the ones at Villa d’Este, remain some of the most visited and most impressive sites in Italy.   

Related Link: http://www.gardenvisit.com/history_theory/library_online_ebooks/ml_gothein_history_garden_art_design/early_baroque_gardens_italy