Parco dei Mostri, Bomarzo

A place of myth, mystery, and horror, Parco dei Mostri was designed not to please, but to astonish. The park’s name stems from its many larger-than-life sculptures, which appear to be have been randomly strewn about the area. The symbolism of these Mannerist works of art is obscure, with figures of a turtle with a winged woman on its back, a huge elephant trampling a Roman legionary, and a dragon attacked by lions, to name just a few of the oddest examples. The layout of the lush garden, created in the 16th century, is attributed to architect Pirro Ligorio, and the sculptures to artist Simone Moschino. The garden, still a private property, has been a major tourist attraction since the 1970s. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. For Parco dei Mostri and beyond, use our Bomarzo holiday site to get the most from your Bomarzo vacation.