One of the many reasons I chose to study in Bologna was to experience cultural immersion while surrounded by unbelievable architecture and incredible history. And I haven’t been disappointed: everywhere you look in northern Italy, the impact of engineering and science is evident. Since arriving in Bologna, I’ve seen Venetian weaponry, a 2000-year-old Roman amphitheater in Verona that’s still in use, Juliette’s balcony (from Romeo and Juliette), and brand new, state-of-the-art engines.
What I wasn’t expecting to find among the columns, temples, and sculptures, however, was inspiration from nature. Earlier this week, though, I decided to spend an afternoon wandering through Bologna without a destination in mind. After a series of turns, I found myself facing the entrance to the Orto Botanico di Bologna, or the Botanical Gardens of the University of Bologna. The gardens were founded in 1568, which makes it one of the oldest botanical gardens in Italy. They cover a span of about five acres and are bounded on one side by the city’s ancient walls. In addition to greenhouses, there are sections of medicinal, ornamental, and forest plants as well as a pond with wetlands.
As I walked the trails, stood inside the trees (!), and rested on the benches, I was struck not only by the beauty around me, but also the way that the science in the garden was taking its inspiration and cues from the natural world. All around me, research and conservation efforts were taking place, supported by laboratories, sensors, and automated water management systems that receded into the background. The sustainable infrastructure that had been created for the garden promoted and complemented the immersive landscape rather than controlling it. The gardens are an incredible example of science and nature as co-creators, and I’m looking forward to my next walk among the plants.
