The most important collection of agapanthus in Europe has thriving in the Gardens of Villa della Pergola.
Over 500 varieties and thousands of specimens transform the Garden with a unique display, making Alassio the European Capital of Agapanthus.
In a triumph of color and scent, thousands of agapanthus envelop visitors along the path, creating evocative and unforgettable atmospheres in a natural setting unparalleled in Italy: already awarded the title of Most Beautiful Park in Italy and, since last year, a Partner Garden of the Royal Horticultural Society.
EUROPE'S MOST IMPORTANT AGAPANTS COLLECTION
The Gardens are home to a unique collection in Europe: thousands of specimens that transform the landscape with shades of blue, white, and purple.
Over 500 varieties are certified by the Italian Society of Horticulture (SOI).
Agapanthus were introduced to Villa della Pergola by the first English owners in the late 19th century, when they were still known as Lilies of the Nile. This name was changed only in 1905, when the Botanical Nomenclature Congress in Vienna gave them the name we use today. The current collection was created from scratch by landscape designer Paolo Pejrone - a student of Russell Page - during the restoration of the Gardens, begun in 2006. His goal was to evoke the waves of the Ligurian Riviera, which the park overlooks, through this flower.
AGAPANTHUS
The name itself tells the story of this flower: agapanthus derives from the Greek agape (love) and anthos (flower) - the "flower of love".
Its hues are infinite when fully bloomed: from azure in all its shades to light blue, blue, white, and lilac, with touches of purple. Agapanthus has fascinated numerous artists over time. Monet kept it in his garden in Giverny; Chagall wanted it as the centerpiece of his residence in Provence to celebrate his birthday each year with the blooming of the "king of blue flowers." The Greek poet and Nobel Prize winner Georges Seferis dedicated an entire work to it.
THE AGAPANTHUS EXPERIENCE IS BACK. A MASTERCLASS OF BOTANY AND BEAUTY
Every Thursday and Friday until July 24th at 5:00 PM, the Gardens offer, in addition to guided tours focusing on the prestigious collection, an even more immersive experience: the Agapanthus Experience.
This is a rare opportunity to discover one of Villa della Pergola's iconic flowers up close, in the heart of one of Europe's most fascinating botanical gardens.
The guided tour leads participants through the areas of the Garden where Agapanthus takes center stage, allowing them to closely observe some of the over 500 varieties and understand their characteristics, growth pattern, and seasonality. The Masterclass follows in the historic Chapel of the Madonna del Vento, a secluded and evocative space adjacent to the Garden. Participants explore the plant's various parts, share interesting facts and stories, and watch a practical demonstration of cutting the rhizome for proper propagation and propagation.
The masterclass lasts approximately an hour and a half.
Tickets for the guided tours and the Masterclass can be purchased HERE.