Italian Renaissance Gardens

Course Title: Italian Renaissance Garden History

Type of Course: Adult Education

Credit: Not credit bearing

Taught Hours: 20

Session Titles

1. Introducing Renaissance Gardens: From Medieval to Modern

2. Florence and the Medici Gardens

3. Rome and the Collector Popes

4. Veneto and Palladio

5. Water and Fountains

6. Sculpture in Gardens or Garden Sculpture?

7. Ovid and Poetry

8. Nymphaeums and Grottoes

9. Planting and Botanic Collections

10. Myths and Giants

Course Overview

Join us on a journey to discover how functional medieval gardens evolved into pleasure gardens during the Italian Renaissance.

As we shall discover, early garden-makers were inspired by classical literature, drawing on the descriptions of ancient Roman gardens in the letters of Pliny the Younger and the poetry of Ovid. But Italian Renaissance gardens were also full of political symbolism, especially in the Florentine gardens of the Medici, whose patronage had a huge impact on the cultural and artistic history of Italy.

We will look at gardens and villas ranging from the Villa Medici (Fiesole and Rome), to the Pratolino and Boboli Gardens, and the Sacro Bosco to the Villa Farnese (Caprarola), amongst many others. In them we will see how horticulture, art and political ambition fused into these unique visual spectaculars.

Whether you enjoy gardening or visiting gardens, or are just fascinated by history, art history or the Renaissance world, join us on this extraordinary exploration into the birth of the modern garden five centuries ago.

Required Previous Experience (if any)

None required.

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)

None required.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course you will be better prepared to:

• Recognise the stylistic features and formal elements of Italian Renaissance gardens, and explain how they evolved from medieval garden traditions.
• Identify key figures, such as the Medici and other patrons, and understand the cultural, artistic and political roles they played in shaping garden design.
• Discuss the symbolism, classical references and artistic components of major Renaissance gardens in relation to their historical and social contexts.

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, group activities, and independent study supported by individual guidance from the tutor. Classes are conducted face-to-face in a classroom setting and utilise diverse teaching methods, including presentations, multimedia resources, class discussions, and interactive activities.

These methods are selected to engage students, accommodate varied learning styles, and support effective understanding of the subject matter. The approach is also designed to recognise and be responsive to the diverse experiences, backgrounds, identities, and cultural perspectives represented within the student cohort, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Additional Information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to the group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.