On Saturday 6 June 2026, the village of Montebruno (GE), Italy hosted the official launch of the Hermit Augustinian Convent Garden, located next to the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Montebruno. The event, held in connection with the Patrania initiative, introduced a space that is “small only in appearance” — a place designed to bring the botanical richness of the Antola Park area closer to citizens, schools and visitors.
Developed within the Interreg Central Europe project Central BIC, the garden was created by Parco Naturale Regionale dell’Antola, acting as implementing body for Regione Liguria, Lead Partner of the project. During the visit, participants were guided by Fernando, responsible for the site’s care on behalf of CREA, who illustrated the deeper meaning of this intervention: not a simple green installation, but a space conceived to educate, conduct research, preserve local biodiversity and make the most valuable habitats of the Park more accessible.
The garden recreates, on a reduced scale and with landscape criteria, several natural and semi‑natural environments characteristic of the Protected Area, with particular attention to meadow habitats, botanical species of interest, and the conservation of ecosystems at risk of decline. A dedicated orchard with local fruit varieties further supports the safeguarding of traditional cultivars and the valorisation of local production chains.
As a diffused biodiversity garden, the site will serve as an experimental area where visitors can directly experience the ecological value of meadow environments. The upcoming management plan will include guided visits, thematic experiences and educational activities aimed at making biodiversity an experience rather than an abstract concept — a place where knowledge becomes encounter, discovery and connection with the territory.