“A garden created as if by magic”: art historian Cesare Brandi used these words to define this unique and special Mediterranean garden, created on the site of the dried-out Lake del Biviere.
“Biviere” (from the Arabic word “veverè” drinking trough for animals and fish farm) is the name of the lake and the district connected to the myth of Hercules, who brought as a gift to Ceres the skin of the Nemean lion which he threw to the ground creating a lake (Lacus Erculeus). Flora and lake fauna flourished there and reclamation of the area and of the lake was carried out between the 1930s and the 1950s. The current owners, descendants of the Borghese family, decided to install an estate for the cultivation of citrus fruit and durum wheat in the areas that had remained uncultivated and abandoned. Two long flowerbeds display an extraordinary collection of succulents and large examples of Yucca Elephantipes, while other parts of the garden are home to lush palms, light blue jacaranda, Parkinsonia aculeata, antique roses and a rare example of Xanthorrea arborea facing the chapel of Sant’Andrea. Orange blossom and jasmine pervade this colourful fragrant garden.
Highlights
The remains of the port
The garden contains blocks of stone from the ancient docks of the port that still show the signs of the boats’ docking rings. Also on the premises are a traditional local boat, a Roman anchor found in the waters of the Argentario area, and some millstones.
The buildings
The property includes the “Casa del Biviere”, the building where the fish was once gutted, the old inn, where wayfarers and hunters could stop for food and rest, and the chapel dedicated to Saint Andrew, patron of fishermen with a painting by Francesco Gramignani, The miraculous catch (1757).
The estate
The “Biviere” is not only a charming garden, it is also an about-110-hectares organic farm, growing top-quality produce including a variety citrus fruits, flat peaches, and apricots. Guided tours with demonstrations and tastings are available.