Giardini Pubblici di Giuseppe Garibaldi (Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens), Lecce

The Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens, are a remarkable example of a "municipal villa," which is a type of public garden commonly found in Puglia during the 19th century. These villas played a significant role in the urban planning of new Apulian villages, serving as a connection between the old historic centers and the emerging communities. With their carefully designed green spaces and diverse plant life, these villas hold cultural, environmental, and tourism significance.

Its construction of was initiated in 1830 under the guidance of engineer Luigi Pino. This beautiful garden was dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Italian general, patriot, and revolutionary, as evidenced by the presence of his bust within the grounds.

The garden's layout is defined by the intersection of two perpendicular axes, which divides the villa into four distinct sections. At the heart of this intersection lies a circular clearing, adorned with a Neoclassical circular temple. This temple, originally from the garden of the Marcelline nuns, was repurposed and integrated into the villa around 1950. It features eight columns with Corinthian capitals, supporting an intricately decorated entablature and a majestic majolica dome.

Inside the park, one can discover numerous busts created by the sculptor Eugenio Maccagnani between 1887 and 1889. These busts pay homage to illustrious figures from the province, adding an artistic and historical dimension to the garden.

The villa's distinctive characteristics extend beyond its historical and cultural elements. Its carefully selected ornamental plants, including various species of evergreen cypresses and Arizona cypresses, contribute to the garden's unique atmosphere. These plants, alongside other Mediterranean and exotic species, enhance the aesthetic appeal and environmental value of the villa, creating a captivating landscape.