The garden name, 'la Mortella', refers to the wild myrtle shrubs that originally populated the site.
Lady Susana Walton personally supervised the garden's layout for over 50 years to honor her husband's creative spirit.
The garden's microclimate is significantly warmer than surrounding areas due to the protective volcanic stone topography.
It contains a collection of the rare Victoria amazonica giant water lily in its lower basin.
The Greek-style outdoor theater was built directly into the side of the hill to utilize natural acoustics.
William Walton composed many of his major works, including his Second Symphony, while living on the property.
The upper garden features a series of fountains and ponds that utilize recycled rainwater for irrigation.
The garden was awarded the 'Most Beautiful Park in Italy' prize by the Il Parco Più Bello network.
Giardini la Mortella is a Mediterranean and tropical botanical garden founded in 1956 by Lady Susana Walton, wife of British composer William Walton. Designed by landscape architect Russell Page, the garden is built into the volcanic rock of the Zaro district on the island of Ischia. The grounds are divided into a lower valley garden and an upper hill garden, which provides panoramic views of Forio and the Tyrrhenian Sea. It houses a vast collection of exotic plants, including rare succulents, giant water lilies, and ancient trees. The estate serves as a concert venue, featuring a Greek-style outdoor theater and a recital hall that hosts professional chamber music performances. The site is maintained by the Fondazione William Walton to preserve the musical and horticultural legacy of its creators. William Walton's ashes are interred in a nymphaeum located within the garden walls. The volcanic soil and mild microclimate allow for a high density of non-native flora to thrive in an outdoor setting.
The upper terrace of the hill garden, offering a panoramic view of the bay with exotic succulents in the foreground.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep, uneven volcanic stone paths connecting the valley to the hill.
Check the concert calendar in advance, as garden tickets often include or offer add-ons for professional chamber music performances.
Bring sun protection, as the upper hill sections have limited shade compared to the dense valley floor.
Do not attempt to visit without checking the seasonal operating calendar, as the garden is closed during winter months.
Closed on Mondays and throughout the winter season; generally open from spring through late autumn.
Walking on flower beds is strictly prohibited; maintaining quiet in performance areas is expected.
