The Charm And Beauty Of Italy: The Kingdom Of Tulips In Piemonte

January 6, 2013 2 Comments

If you’re in Italy this spring, make sure to go to a very special place in Piemonte that I personally adore, although few people know about it: Castello di Pralormo, the castle of tulips. The castle was built in 13th century as a stark, practical fortress where beauty was not the main focus. In 1574, the first modest garden was built around the castle, but the main transformation came at the end of 19th century. The owner of the castle, Count of Pralormo, King’s minister, hired Ernesto Melano, a well-known architect, to rebuild the castle and turn it into a comfortable, luxurious residence. Ernesto joined forces with garden architect Xavier Kurten who created a stunning English park around the castle. The romantic park is most magnificent in springtime when 50 thousand tulips of all colors burst into flower. It’s a true feast of nature and a unique scene that must be experienced in person. The Pralormos who still reside here, generously open their door to visitors in order to share this magical spring richness with them.