One of the most anticipated events of spring is back again this year: the Iris Garden reopens its doors from April 25th to May 20th, on the occasion of the spectacular flowering of this flower, symbol of Florence.

A few steps from the famous Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the most suggestive panoramic points of Florence, is the Iris Garden, a special place dedicated to the flower that is the symbol of the city.

Born in 1954 thanks to the passion of the Ladies Flaminia Specht and Nita Stross Radicati, the garden was created to host the International Iris Competition – Premio Firenze, which still attracts hybridizers, botanists and enthusiasts from all over the world. The choice of Florence as the location is not accidental: the city's banner features a red iris on a white background, often confused with a lily.

Thanks to the efforts of the then councilor Piero Bargellini, the Municipality assigned the promoters a plot of land on the eastern side of the square, known as the “Podere dei Bastioni”. In 1957, under the guidance of architect Giuliano Zetti, the Garden was officially inaugurated.

A botanical garden to discover

The Iris Garden extends for about two and a half hectares in a suggestive olive grove with a breathtaking view of Florence. It is crossed by paths in pietra serena, steps and squares that lead visitors to the discovery of an extraordinary collection:

• Bearded irises (tall, intermediate and dwarf)

• Japanese Iris, Louisiana and Sibirica

• Spontaneous and rare species

• Ornamental plants of various types

In 1967 a small lake was also created, perfect for hosting aquatic varieties, such as Japanese and Louisiana Irises.

Over time, the Garden has been enriched by donations from growers around the world, including the prestigious Presby Memorial Garden in New Jersey (USA), which contributed a collection of historic Irises.

📅 When: April 25th to May 20th
⏰ Opening hours: every day from 10.00 to 18.00
🎟️ Free entry

Don't miss the chance to discover this enchanted corner of Florence, perfect for an afternoon among colors, scents and unique views.