The extraordinary beauty of Ischia, one of the most picturesque islands in the Gulf of Naples, is adorned with one of the most splendid gardens in Europe. La Mortela, a dream between the greenery of still unknown plants and the aroma of truly original flowers.
The history of the La Mortella Gardens, a romantic love story
In the magnificent setting of the Zaro promontory, in the municipality of Forio d'Ischia, are the Gardens, which represent one of the most popular attractions of the island, built from 1958 by Susana Walton, Argentine wife of the English composer William Walton.
The couple, who married in December 1948 after three months of meeting in Buenos Aires, arrived in Ischia in 1949, initially in a rented house but then decided to buy land in the town."the deadly“, whose name is due to the myrtle trees that grew between the rocks.
And while her husband composed, Lady Walton, with love, determination and a strong artistic sense, began to create a authentic masterpiece truly unique, made up of flowers and plants: first with the advice and help of landscape designer Russell Page and then, following solely his own feelings and inspiration.
In impermeable and difficult terrain, he dedicated himself tirelessly to giving shape and structure to a dream, planting, watering and working. for 50 years: Susana found in Mortella her reason for living, the goal of creating a monument to her husband's work and a tangible memory of the great love they lived together.
Thus, what in the early 1950s seemed like an arid and unpromising terrain dotted with volcanic stones, is today a fabulous multi-level garden which is home to some of the most original plant species in the world and ranges from the subtropical environment of the valley, with a shady and humid microclimate, to the top of the hill with numerous sunny areas.
Lady Walton, widowed in 1983, decided to open the garden's doors to the public in 1991 and, in 2003, entrusted the management and ownership of Mortella to William Walton Foundation in Italy, established by her.
Today, the "William Walton and Mortella Foundation" cares for, manages and opens the Gardens to the public following the instructions left by Susana, carrying forward her artistic vision and enlightened spirit.
The must-see places of the most beautiful gardens of Ischia
The Mortella Gardens are divided into two areas: the L-shaped valley garden was designed in 1956 by Russel Page: the longer side is bordered by a small stream, while the shorter is in front of Walton House.
The main crossings are designed by four fountains and here the extraordinary stands out Ginkgo biloba which also sparked Goethe's interest.
The garden on the hill, on the other hand, is the work of Susana Walton and dates back to 1983: covered with Mediterranean vegetation, it enjoys a spectacular view of the blue sea.
At the top, in a dominant position, is the "Guillermo Roca“, custodian of the musician's ashes.
Not far away, here is theSun Temple", which previously housed a rainwater cistern, with decorations representing Apollo, god of music and poetry, the work of Simon Verity.
Still in the area, the gaze rests on the nymphaeum, the memorial of Susanna, with the steel fountain in the center, defined as the “Mirror of the soul”, and the small Cave of Aphrodite.
Furthermore, taking advantage of the slope of the hill, Greek theater which, during the summer season, serves as a stage for open-air music concerts.
Between fountains, pools and lakes, a riot of exotic plants of rare beauty.
The Garden is open from April to October from 9.00:19.00 a.m. to XNUMX:XNUMX p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays with extraordinary openings on holidays and the possibility of guided tours (for constantly updated information, consult the official website).
