Jardín de Polífilo

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park's name and conceptual design are derived from the 1499 Italian book 'Hypnerotomachia Poliphili' by Francesco Colonna.

2. 2

   The garden is structured as a physical manifestation of an allegorical search for love described in the novel.

3. 3

   It was designed by the architect Borja Goerlich and landscape designer Jesús Montero.

4. 4

   The park avoids a standard rectangular layout in favor of organic shapes intended to stimulate discovery.

5. 5

   Local residents often refer to it as one of the 'secret' gardens of the city due to its recessed location below street level.

Overview

Jardí de Polifil is an urban park in the Campanar district of Valencia, inspired by the 15th-century Renaissance literary work Hypnerotomachia Poliphili. The garden's layout utilizes architectural elements and specific vegetation to mirror the narrative journey of the protagonist, Poliphilus. It features a series of thematic zones, including labyrinthine pathways, water features, and sheltered pergolas. The design emphasizes a sequence of spatial transitions intended to represent different chapters of the original text. Stone benches and elevated seating areas are positioned throughout the park to offer views of the garden's geometry. The vegetation includes a mix of Mediterranean species integrated with structured topiaries. It serves as a local neighborhood park, providing a contrast to the dense urban environment of western Valencia.

Insider tips

• Bring a book, as the park is significantly quieter than larger public spaces in central Valencia.

• Check the signage near the entrance, which explains the allegorical connection to the Renaissance source material.

• Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Nou Campanar neighborhood.