Queen Maria Carolina specifically requested the garden to showcase rare and exotic botanical species.
The garden contains one of the first botanical collections of camellias in continental Europe.
Many of the decorative statues found along the pathways were sourced directly from archaeological sites in the Vesuvian area.
Andrew Graefer, the garden's designer, lived on-site to oversee the acclimatization of non-native plant species.
The irrigation system relies on the Carolino Aqueduct, which channels water from the slopes of Mount Taburno.
The English Garden (Giardino Inglese) is located within the Royal Park of the Reggia di Caserta, designed by landscape architect Andrew Graefer for Queen Maria Carolina of Naples in 1785. It differs from the formal, geometric Italian-style park by utilizing a picturesque design characterized by irregular paths, winding streams, and diverse botanical species. The garden houses the Cryptoporticus, a structure built with salvaged Roman statues and artifacts from the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum. A notable feature is the 'Bagno di Venere,' a small pond framed by a semi-circular colonnade and lush vegetation. It serves as an early example of the landscape gardening movement in Italy, showcasing exotic plants brought from international expeditions. The garden occupies a specific segment of the 120-hectare park complex at the rear of the Royal Palace.
The edge of the Bagno di Venere, capturing the reflection of the colonnade in the pond.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain is unpaved and significantly uneven compared to the main park avenues.
Carry sufficient water, as there are limited facilities once you move deep into the garden area.
Use the shuttle service from the palace entrance to save energy for walking the garden itself.
Attempting to walk the entire distance from the Palace gate to the English Garden in the midday summer heat without using the shuttle.
Closed on Tuesdays; subject to closure during extreme weather conditions or high-wind alerts.
Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile, centuries-old flora; no climbing on statues or ruins.
