Private Tour Capalbio and Tarot Garden

Conceived by the imaginative and artistic genius of Niki de Saint Phalle, Giardino dei Tarocchi is one of the most captivating and unique treasures of the region. 

Tarot Garden History and Architects

Begun in the 1970s, Giardino dei Tarocchi is the result of over twenty years of tireless work by the Franco-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle and her team, including her husband Jean Tinguely, renowned for his kinetic sculptures. The entrance of the garden features a striking architectural element co-created with Ticinese architect Mario Botta and Grosseto architect Roberto Aureli, serving as a gateway to this exceptional artistic realm.

Characterized by its vivid and surreal sculptures, the garden aspires to weave together art, spirituality, and nature, creating a transition from the tangible world into a dreamlike state. Here, every piece harmoniously integrates with its surroundings, encapsulating a vision where art transcends reality.

The Sculptures at Tarot Garden

As visitors wander through the garden, they are greeted by the twenty-two major arcana of the tarot deck, each sculpture offering a distinctive interpretation through varying shapes, colors, and sizes. One of the most iconic pieces is The Empress: a majestic, habitable figure adorned with enormous breasts and windows, providing an intriguing perspective from inside. Other figures like The Magician and Death are equally imposing, each telling their own esoteric tale.

Where is and how to reach Tarot Garden

Giardino dei Tarocchi is located in Pescia Fiorentina, a part of Capalbio, and spreads across a hill that offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside. The artist Niki de Saint Phalle chose this evocative location to create her colorful world inspired by the major arcana of the tarot, drawing inspiration from Parc Güell in Barcelona and the Park of Monsters in Bomarzo. 

Accessing the Giardino dei Tarocchi from Capalbio is straightforward: simply take the SP68 towards Pescia Fiorentina. The journey is short and pleasant, passing through the green Maremma countryside. The garden is well signposted, with ample parking available.

Exploring Capalbio and Nearby Attractions

Beyond the enchanting Giardino dei Tarocchi, the surrounding area offers many other attractions. For instance, the medieval village of Capalbio boasts ancient walls and charming streets that exude a typically Tuscan atmosphere. Here, you can immerse yourself in history and enjoy the local culture.

Private Tour to Tarot Garden from Argentario

For guests staying at the hotel LA ROQQA in Porto Ercole, an exclusive private tour can be arranged, starting from the Argentario Peninsula, with captivating stops through Capalbio and Giardino dei Tarocchi. The day kicks off with a visit to the Monteverro winery, where guests can delve into the intricacies of winemaking and savor their exceptional wines. This experience is complemented by a delicious meat or fish lunch.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Tarot Garden. Here, you will enter the mystical world Niki de Saint Phalle’s tarot-inspired sculptures. The exploration extends to a local distillery, offering a chance to taste handcrafted liquors and learn about the distillation process.

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