Venetian Gardens

Tucked away in the heart of Venice, hidden from the public eye, lie unexpected oases of calm and beauty.Venetian Gardensoffers an exclusive view of the splendor and charm of these secret gardens, undiscovered by the vast majority of visitors to the magical city known as la Serenissima. Whether strolling through the narrow streets or riding on a gondola, most passers-by would miss the rows of trees running alongside ancient city walls, massive climbing vines, flower-covered terraces, and the luxurious gardens of grand palaces. Professional tour guide Mariagrazia Dammicco unlocks Venice's garden gates, allowing us access to hidden oases usually closed to the general public. This book invites the reader to explore twenty of Venice's secret gardens, ranging from private family havens to convent sanctuaries, and including all styles and shapes, contemporary and medieval alike. Marianne Majerus's splendid photography and Dammicco's informative text give the reader a peek behind the closed doors of exclusive residences and quiet convents. This lavish volume is sure to inspire gardeners and lovers of Venice with its spotlight on the unusual and stunning floral combinations that are proven winners in the featured gardens.

Mariagrazia Dammicco is a journalist living in Mestre, near Venice. She is a member of the Club of Historic Gardens of Venice and has collaborated on the guide I Giardini Veniziani. Marianne Majerus lives in London, but she makes frequent trips to her favorite city, Venice. She specializes in garden photography, and she was awarded "Photograph of the Year" in 2002. Her work has appeared in Secret Gardens of London and in House Beautiful Container Gardens.