The Biltmore Italian Gardens are very peaceful. I copied the following description from the Biltmore website: Frederick Law Olmsted envisioned this space as an outdoor room for Vanderbilt and his guests. With its three symmetrical pools, manicured lawns, and classical statuary, the elegant Italian Garden is the perfect setting for quiet reflection. However, the contemplative mood transformed into a festive atmosphere whenever the Vanderbilts and their guests engaged in a lively set of tennis, on the grassy area nearest the house. After the match, guests could slip through the handy basement doorway to change clothes.
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HERE" is a link to all the gardens that are on this estate.
The lillie pad's splash of color contrasting with the stone walls and statues is mesmerizing. It isn't hard to imagine the sounds of laughter and conversation of long ago...
I took these photos mid-day and hesitated to share them as the shadows are harsh. But I got to thinking that this IS a garden designed for full sun and to be enjoyed as such. Yes, photos with less shadow would be nice, but I think the play of shadow here is interesting.
This sweet cherub is at the end of the garden, centered overlooking the expanse of lillie pools and statues. The house can be seen to the right and the covered terrace is directly in front of the Italian Garden.
The photo above is for "
Macro Monday".
Views from the covered terrace. I submitted this to the "
Creative Exchange" as I think it exudes peace... I wasn't sure which one to use of the two, but chose the top one...
Tomorrow I will post the other statues from the Italian Garden.
