The Garden of Pojega is reborn: restoration, vision, and new experiences in Valpolicella
In the heart of Valpolicella, the Garden of Pojega has returned to its original splendor. On May 8, 2025, the end of a long and meticulous restoration was celebrated—a project that has brought new life to one of the most extraordinary historic gardens in Italy. Originally designed in 1783 by Count Antonio Rizzardi, this living masterpiece has now been revived thanks to a restoration project supported by Italy’s Ministry of Culture through PNRR funding for the enhancement of historic parks and gardens.
A restoration that looks to the future
“Being the custodian of a jewel of green architecture like the Garden of Pojega is both a great joy and a deep responsibility,” said Count Agostino Rizzardi at the opening ceremony.
“This restoration marks only the beginning of a broader effort to make the garden more accessible to an ever-growing audience. Today, the garden is at the height of its beauty—its green architecture fully realized and in dialogue with the restored historic structures.”
The project, selected among 120 from over a thousand proposals, was overseen by Giustiniani & Partners, with landscape architect Giuseppe Rallo directing the restoration of the grounds.
Giuseppe Rallo explained how the work brought hidden treasures back to light, such as ancient stone channels that still carry water from a natural spring through the garden's fountains and down to the vineyards. In addition to the conservation efforts, the project introduced sustainable and forward-looking features: a small bush-trained vineyard was created where a vegetable garden once stood, using the ‘Divico’ grape, known for its disease resistance and minimal environmental impact. More than forty cherry trees were also planted to honor Valpolicella’s traditional polyculture and to strengthen the connection between the garden and its surrounding landscape.
A visionary legacy: Maria Cristina Loredan Rizzardi
The Garden of Pojega has not only been restored but was already shared with the public thanks to a visionary decision made in the early 2000s by Maria Cristina Loredan Rizzardi. Following the death of her husband, Count Antonio Rizzardi, she took the helm of the family’s agricultural estate, expanding its export reach and developing its cru wines. A pioneer of wine tourism on Lake Garda, she was awarded the Cavaliere del Lavoro honor in 2010 for her contribution to Italian agriculture and culture.
A symbolic garden: between theatre, art and perspective
Spanning 54,000 square meters, the Garden of Pojega unfolds across three terraced levels along the hillside, forming a dynamic visual journey culminating in the iconic Teatro di Verzura, or green theatre—a unique example in Europe. More than 60 restored limestone statues now accompany visitors through a space where formal Italian garden design blends harmoniously with English-style romantic landscapes.
A tribute to Berrocal and the power of memory
Among the evening’s guests was Cristina Berrocal, who shared an emotional tribute to her husband, Spanish sculptor Miguel Berrocal, who lived and worked at Villa Rizzardi from 1967 to 2004.
“Villa Rizzardi became for me a machine for living, thinking, and dreaming. We always welcomed those who wanted to visit the garden—such a privilege could not be ours alone.”
Reading from her husband’s unpublished writings, she added:
“This was always the true essence of the Garden of Pojega, and I thank Count Rizzardi for restoring it to its original grandeur. Returning here today is deeply moving. For nearly forty years, this place was our home, our refuge, the heart of our family.”
To honor him, the bronze sculpture Sainte Agathe II was installed in the villa’s atrium.
A living heritage for the community
This restoration not only preserved the garden’s heritage but also expanded its potential as a place of well-being and inclusion. In collaboration with the IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, the garden will welcome patients and families seeking peace in nature. The program also includes activities for children, families, and visitors of all ages.
Guided tours now conclude with a tasting of Guerrieri Rizzardi wines, produced on the estate. The tasting takes place in a 17th-century rural courtyard that also houses the wine shop—an excellent example of cultural wine tourism that blends landscape, heritage, and viticulture.
Discover more: the restoration journey log
To explore the project in greater depth, download the Restoration Journey Log, created for the inauguration event. This illustrated publication chronicles the entire process—design choices, before-and-after images, and testimonials from the people behind the transformation.
👉 Download the Restoration Journey Log
Watch the inauguration video
Relive the highlights of the May 8 event, including speeches by Count Agostino Rizzardi, Giuseppe Rallo, and Cristina Berrocal, alongside stunning footage of the newly restored garden.
