Guardian of the Ages: The Colossus of the Apennines in Italy's Park of Pratolino - Breaking News & Top Stories

Located just north of Florence, Italy, lies a captivating park with a storied history – the Park of Pratolino. In 1568, Francesco I de’ Medici acquired the estate and named it the Medicean Paggeria of Pratolino. Legend has it that the Grand Duke of Tuscany purchased the property as a gift for his lover, Bianca Cappello. The Duke engaged a renowned architect to transform the estate into a fairytale haven, complete with an opulent villa surrounded by picturesque gardens, magnificent water fountains, and impressive bronze statues. Among these sculptures stands the Colossus of the Apennines, an immense brick and stone structure portraying a solemn guardian.

The Colossus of the Apennines, crafted by Italian sculptor Giambologna, stands as the sole surviving statue within the Park of Pratolino. Following the passing of Francesco and Bianca, the once-beautiful property gradually fell into disrepair, and the grand villa, along with the surrounding park, was eventually destroyed. In 1872, the estate was acquired by Russian Prince Paolo II Demidoff, who meticulously restored both the ruined villa and the neglected park, subsequently renaming the property Villa Demidoff. A century later, the Florence Province Council purchased the estate and transformed it into a public park, now known as the Park of Pratolino.

Of all the original structures constructed in the 16th century, only the Colossus of the Apennines endures. Perched atop its stone throne, this monumental statue has withstood the test of time for over 400 years. It truly lives up to its name, serving as a faithful guardian of the property for centuries. You can pay a visit to this majestic statue in the Park of Pratolino, which is open to the public on weekends and holidays. If you plan to visit during the weekdays, it’s advisable to make a reservation in advance.