Tree Cathedral in Italy
I am planning a family trip to Italy later this fall. Unfortunately, I think we will miss being able to see gardens and general greenery as it will be too late in the season.
This morning, my good friend emailed me about this tree cathedral that is being inaugurated tomorrow (September 4th 2010). I think even without greenery — this may be end up being a stop on our tour.

image from wired.co.uk
The Tree Cathedral is located outside of Bergamo, Italy, on the slopes of the Arera mountain, and is the creation of famed Italian contemporary artist, Giuliano Mauri.

Giuliano Mauri, is a ‘natural architect’ who died in May 2009. The structure was his last work, to signify the International Year of Biodiversity. It stands 21 metres tall, with five aisles and 42 columns. It’s 28.5 metres long and 24 metres wide, and has been built from 1800 firs, 600 chestnut branches and 6000 metres of hazel branch that’s been weaved into the design. 42 beeches have been planted inside, which will grow over time to provide the roof to the structure, which remains open to the rain for the time being. Here are some interesting images of the making of the cathedrale, but with all good gardens, I am excited to keep an eye on this one and see how it matures with time.











