Giardino della Minerva — Attraction in Salerno

The Giardino della Minerva, also known as the Orto Botanico di Salerno (Botanical Garden of Salerno), is a historic and beautiful garden located in the city of Salerno, Italy. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe and has a rich history dating back to the medieval period. The Giardino della Minerva was originally established in the early 14th century, around 1309, by Matteo Silvatico, a physician, and botanist. Silvatico was the personal physician to Queen Sancha of Aragon, who ruled over the Kingdom of Naples. The garden was initially created as a medicinal herb garden, and its primary purpose was to cultivate and study medicinal plants for the benefit of the royal court. Over the centuries, the garden evolved and expanded, serving various purposes. It was used for educational and research purposes by scholars and botanists. In the 16th century, the garden was expanded and reorganized by the famous botanist and physician Luca Ghini. During the 18th century, the garden was further developed, and its layout was influenced by the principles of the Baroque style. It became a place of both scientific research and leisure, with a focus on aesthetics. Today, the Giardino della Minerva is not only historically significant but also a place of great beauty. It covers an area of approximately 1.2 hectares and is divided into various sections, each dedicated to different types of plants. Some of the key features and areas within the garden include: Medicinal Garden: The garden still maintains its original purpose, with a rich collection of medicinal plants. Visitors can learn about the historical uses of these plants in medicine. Historical Architecture: The garden features beautiful historic structures, including a Baroque-style pavilion and decorative fountains, which add to its charm. Terraces and Panoramic Views: The garden is built on terraces, providing visitors with panoramic views of the city of Salerno and the Gulf of Salerno. Heritage Trees: The garden is home to some ancient and remarkable trees, including centuries-old olive trees. Educational Activities: The garden hosts educational programs and activities, making it a place for learning about botany, history, and traditional herbal medicine. Botanical Collections: In addition to medicinal plants, the garden contains a diverse collection of other botanical specimens, including exotic and rare plants. Cultural Events: The Giardino della Minerva is also a venue for cultural events, such as concerts and exhibitions, which further enhance its appeal. The Giardino della Minerva is not only a place of historical significance but also a serene and beautiful spot where visitors can immerse themselves in the history of botany and appreciate the natural beauty of the garden. It serves as a living testament to the long tradition of botanical study and...

Giardino della Minerva is without a doubt one of Salerno’s most enchanting and underrated spots. Tucked away in the upper part of the old town, this historic botanical garden offers a perfect combination of breathtaking views, peaceful surroundings, and deep cultural significance. It’s not just a garden — it’s a journey through centuries of medical and botanical history.

Originally created in the 14th century by Matteo Silvatico, a physician and herbalist of the Schola Medica Salernitana, it was Europe’s first known medical teaching garden. Every plant in the garden once had — and still has — a purpose: from healing wounds to aiding digestion. Each terrace is beautifully laid out and labeled, with signs explaining the ancient medicinal uses of the herbs and plants, making the experience as educational as it is relaxing.

The garden’s layout is stunning — terraced levels that climb the hillside, with charming stone paths, fountains, and pergolas covered in vines. The views over Salerno’s rooftops and coastline are simply unforgettable. It feels like you’re stepping into a peaceful oasis suspended between nature and history.

There’s also a small tea house/café at the top where you can enjoy herbal teas made from plants grown in the garden itself. It’s a lovely, quiet place to pause, reflect, and take in the beauty around you.

Staff are friendly and helpful, and the entrance fee is very reasonable (a few euros). It’s a short but steep walk up from the Duomo, but completely worth the effort.

Whether you're interested in history, botany, or just want to escape the crowds for a bit, Giardino della Minerva is a must-visit. It’s a place that nourishes both mind and soul — a living example of how science, nature, and art can come together in...

Excellent museum / botanical garden! I love that visitors are informed about the Salerno Medical School and its impact on medicine back in the days before entering the garden.

It's exciting to see how all of those plants were seen as "exotic", because they are now quite common. Excellent way of incorporating the historical facts into the garden as well.

These plants are classified as cold or warm, dry or wet – in line with the four elements which dominated the view on medicine at the Salerno Medical School. There's also a way to get more information via QR codes.

And please DO stay for a cup of tea, because it is so delicious. The different kinds of tea are also classified by the selection of the plants and herbs used, which is a...