Villa Ghigi Park

Villa Ghigi Park, located on the first hills south of Bologna, is a charming green space that combines nature, history, and culture. The villa, which gives its name to the park, dates back to the 16th century and was owned by several noble families, including the Ghigi family, who acquired it in 1874. Callisto Ghigi, a lawyer passionate about botany and ornithology, planted exotic trees and helped shape the park’s landscape. His son Alessandro Ghigi, a zoologist and rector of the University of Bologna, lived in the villa for much of his life, dedicating himself to the study and conservation of wildlife. After his death in 1970, the park was donated to the Municipality of Bologna and opened to the public in 1974. The Villa Ghigi Foundation, established in 2001, now manages the park, promoting educational and conservation activities. The park covers an area of about 28 hectares, characterized by remarkable biodiversity. It includes meadows, orchards, woods, and vineyards, offering a representative example of the Bolognese hillside landscape. Among the centuries-old trees are oak trees, cherry trees, walnut trees, and a majestic Himalayan cedar. The Orchard of the Palazzino preserves ancient varieties of fruit trees, making the park a living museum of local fruit growing. In addition to the vegetation, the park houses several historic buildings, including the main villa, currently in a state of abandonment, and the Custodian’s House, recently restored and used as a refreshment point for visitors. The park is also crossed by paths that lead to the Hermitage of Ronzano, offering splendid panoramic views of the city of Bologna. Villa Ghigi Park is not only an oasis of tranquility for the people of Bologna, but also a center for environmental education and research. The Villa Ghigi Foundation organizes guided tours, workshops for schools, and awareness activities on biodiversity and sustainability. The park has become a reference point for nature enthusiasts and for those who want to learn more about the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The history of the park is rich in significant events. For example, in 1963 Alessandro Ghigi donated part of the estate to the municipality, allowing the construction of some villas in the area. Subsequently, land protection laws prevented further construction, thus preserving the integrity of the hillside landscape. Today, the park is an example of how the conservation and enhancement of natural heritage can go hand in hand with education and public enjoyment.