An oasis of aromas and tradition
The idea of a space called "THE GARDEN OF SCENTS" was born from the Abbey and Museum Welcome Group of Carceri. A project that combines the herbal tradition of the Camaldolese Monks with a passion for medicinal plants, creating an educational and sensory place unique of its kind.
The birth of the project
It is late summer 2015 when, in the area adjacent to the 12th-century Romanesque Cloister, work begins on the creation of the flowerbeds where the "MEDICINAL PLANTS" will be arranged.
The project aimed at two fundamental objectives:
- Reviving the knowledge and legacy of the Camaldolese Monks for the culture and knowledge of medicinal plants, reviving an ancient tradition that for centuries characterised monastic life
- Enriching the environment with an educational space to be dedicated to the interest of school groups visiting the Abbey Site, offering an immersive educational experience
With the spring of 2016, it became possible to observe, smell and touch the medicinal plants, which released into the air their delicate and at the same time enchanting fragrance.
Medicinal plants and the Monks
In the Middle Ages, monasteries were essential centres for the cultivation and study of medicinal plants. The Camaldolese Monks of the Abbey of Carceri grew aromatic and medicinal herbs in their gardens, using them for:
- To prepare natural remedies to treat common ailments and conditions
- Flavouring food and drinks according to monastic culinary traditions
- Creating perfumes and ointments for liturgical and everyday use
- Teach and pass on the beneficial properties of herbs to local communities
The Garden of Scents today represents the continuation of this age-old tradition, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a sensory experience that links past and present.
The GEEL Floriculture Farm
It all began with the passion of Diego and Gigliola, founders and owners of GEEL Floriculture, a small nursery business in Carceri that made the creation of this wonderful project possible.
The Farm, which alongside the passion of the parents has embraced the enthusiasm of their children and their spouses, represents an excellence of the area. You can visit by appointment in Carceri, at Via Arzaron 75/A.
Farm characteristics
- Organic and eco-sustainable cultivation ICEA certified
- Hundreds of species medicinal, aromatic, wild edible and melliferous
- Family-run in the family greenhouses with love and dedication
- National awards obtained by taking part in specialist events throughout the region
Photo gallery
Discover the medicinal plants and the garden spaces
Visits and educational activities
The Garden of Scents can be visited during the Abbey’s opening hours
Guided tours
For groups and school classes
- Guided sensory trails
- Identifying medicinal plants
- History of monastic herbalism
- Properties and uses of aromatic herbs
Educational workshops
School activities
- Creating scented sachets
- Drying aromatic herbs
- Preparing natural herbal teas
- Botanical study of the plants
Note: To book guided tours and educational workshops, please contact the Abbey Welcome Group.
Contacts GEEL Floriculture
For information about medicinal plants, visits to the farm or purchases, you can contact directly:
s.s.a. GEEL Floricoltura
Address: Via Arzaron, 75/A - 35049 Santa Caterina D'Este (PD)
Phone: +39 3458570033 / +39 3519109170
Visits by appointment
Come and discover the Garden of Scents
A unique sensory experience combining history, nature and tradition