San Giovanni Garden

The courtyard of the Civiche Raccolte d’Arte at Palazzo Marliani Cicogna (on the Via Monsignor Borroni side) is enhanced by a charming open-air museum section: the Horto di San Giovanni.

The initiative, launched to mark the summer solstice celebrations and the patron saint’s day, enhances the city’s public spaces by reviving a fascinating folk tradition.

Between botany and tradition: Acqua del Solstizio

The display, created in collaboration with Bellezza Bio Montalto, features a selection of plants, flowers and medicinal herbs historically used in the preparation of the traditional “Acqua di San Giovanni” (or solstice water).

Once widely practised to ward off drought, disease and bad weather, this magical-religious ritual took place on the night between 23 and 24 June, combining faith, superstition and ancient botanical knowledge.

Today, this intangible heritage is being shared with the community thanks to the invaluable contribution of herbalist Giuseppe Montalto, offering visitors a unique educational and sensory experience.

Useful information for the visit

• Where: Courtyard of the Civic Art Collections at Palazzo Marliani Cicogna (Entrance on Via Monsignor Borroni)
• Entrance: Free of charge (included in the Museum Pass)

Contact and Information

For further details on the Horto di San Giovanni and the museum’s activities:

• Museums Office: 0331 390352 | 0331 390351 – [email protected]
• Palazzo Marliani Cicogna: 0331 635505
• Website: Marliani Cicogna Palace