The Garden of Wonders: discovering the Colossus of the Apennines
The Medici Park of Pratolino (now Villa Demidoff), a UNESCO heritage site, lies along the road from Florence to Bologna, in the municipality of Vaglia, just a few kilometers from the city.
Conceived by Bernardo Buontalenti, to whom Francesco I de’ Medici entrusted the project in the second half of the 16th century, it immediately aroused great interest for its remarkable artificial grottos, water features, automata, and statues. It was soon dubbed “the garden of wonders” , and even today it remains a place of exceptional charm.
Walking up the park’s avenues, one has the impression of entering a realm where nature and human ingenuity merged centuries ago. Strolling through the greenery, among wide meadows and wooded areas, a grand figure can be glimpsed in the distance, seemingly emerging from the earth: it is the Colossus of the Apennines, Giambologna’s most iconic work.
Created between 1579 and 1580, this 14 meter-tall statue is a colossal presence that welcomes visitors. The Colossus appears crouched by the edge of a small lake, with one hand pressing down on the head of a sea monster, giving the impression of a living creature about to rise.
But the true wonder lies within. Inside the statue was once a multi-level structure filled with secrets and marvels:
- The Inner Grottos: Within the giant’s body are decorated chambers, once adorned with frescoes, shells, and rare minerals.
- The Secret Chamber: Climbing up to the head, there is a small room that connects to the outside through the eyes and ears, from which it was possible to admire the surrounding landscape.
- A Heart of Water: Originally, the giant was the beating heart of an extraordinary hydraulic system. Water flowed through its cavities to power fountains and water features.
Unfortunately, the internal rooms and the secret chamber in the head are not currently open to the public. However, the enchantment of the Colossus itself and a walk through the park remain a deeply captivating experience.
It is the perfect place for a day trip, even with children, where you can enjoy picnics on the wide lawns and bring along pets. The park is also accessible by public transport.
The Medici Park can be visited free of charge on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, from April through the end of October.
From April 25 to June 21, 11 free guided tours are scheduled by reservation, offered by the Metropolitan City of Florence and organized by the Pro Loco Tourist Association of Vaglia. These tours are mainly intended for adults, although children are welcome to join.
