Between the 16th and 17th centuries, travelers described the Genoa area as an “uninterrupted garden”: a system of villas, gardens, and parks which, together with the surrounding terraced landscapes, characterized much of Liguria. Today, only a few elements remain, which it is essential to investigate in order to protect and enhance them through appropriate restoration measures. Such research activities are particularly important for the city of Genoa, as well as for Liguria in general. In many cases, the green areas of some historic gardens constitute true islands of vegetation in a densely built-up context or one characterized by rural landscapes. The main objective of GLAS’ research is to outline possible approaches and strategies that could be useful in restoring the legibility of many valuable existing fragments and reconstructing a picture of the heritage of existing historic gardens.

Adriana Ghersi, Patrizia Burlando, Francesca Mazzino, Paola Sabbion