A small but cosy 18th century Park opposite the magnificent Porta Sargozza. There’s little to see except for skyscraper trees which do actually provide shade in hotter moments. Frequent visitors are students from the nearby Engineering faculty.

Founded in 1568 by Ulisse Aldrovandi this Botanical Garden is one of the oldest in Italy and also in Europe. It contains 5,000 specimens of exotic and local plants including 3 greenhouses with ferns, orchidaceous, bromeliaceous and trees of nutritional interest.

Designed by Ernesto di Sambuy and inaugurated 1879 after the “Queen of Italy”. They were inspired by early 19th century English gardens. Includes a lake with ducks, turtles and fountains, play areas for children and enough space to stretch out on a sunny day.

Built in 1956 after successful lobbying by the Mayor of Bologna Giuseppe Dozza and to the design of Giulio Onesti. The ground it was built upon was the old Hospital Maggiore until it was bombed. Certain sporting legends helped it’s reputation along the way such as Canna, Lombardi, Orlandi, Villalta, Brunamonti, Myers and Basile.

A park which caters for children, dog walkers and those with a real interest in exotic plants and trees. Villa Spada built by the Zambeccari family dates to the late 1700s. A medieval tower is also where Ugo Bassi spent his last few hours before being executed by the Austrians. Ancient sculptures and local art work are also on display here.

Initially caused by a massive landslide, it subsequently damned the valley. At 47m in depth and 195 square metres in surface area, it’s hardly huge but its beauty, clear waters and natural settings make it worth while for a little rest.

Piazza Dante Park was created in 1879 by Saverio Tamanini from swamp land. A huge statue and work of art takes center stage. It celebrates a historic period by the Irredentists to reunite the north with the rest of Italy. Many busts of other famous Trentino people litter the park including Carducci, Negrelli, Prati, Verdi etc.

Prato della Valle, Padova, was made in 1775 by Andrea Memmo. Its one of the largest squares in Europe. There’s 78 statues of famous men bordering an elliptical island surrounded by a canal. Excavations here brought to light a Roman theatre. It’s busy all year round with strollers, skaters, tourists and even the odd festival.

Footage of a historic pilgrim route on the way up to a beautiful church. The area traces its roots back 1000years ago. The serene but durable trek up Via Francigena takes you to church restored and managed by a local couple. Their dedication has revived a whole environment of 18th century delights definitely worth the effort.