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A Living Dream of Art and Nature

A magical oasis on Lake Garda, Heller Garden weaves lush flora and thought-provoking sculptures into an oasis of wonder, reflection, and serenity.

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Adam and Eve, 1989

Saint Phalle’s vibrant, voluptuous *Adam and Eve* reinterprets the biblical tale with a playful, feminist lens. Unlike traditional depictions emphasizing shame and sin, her figures are joyful, colorful, and free of judgment. The bright, rounded forms and patterns embody Saint Phalle’s signature style, reflecting her mission to reimagine historical narratives through female empowerment. The work is a continuation of her large-scale *Tarot Garden* project, where mythology and contemporary sensibilities merge.

Nikki De Saint Phalle
Pierre Auguste Renoir  - La Grande Laveuse Accroupie

Renoir’s *Washerwoman* is one of his most significant sculptures, depicting a working-class figure engaged in everyday labor. Despite its imposing form, the piece radiates a sense of peace and dignity. Renoir, suffering from arthritis, collaborated with sculptor Richard Guino to bring this vision to life, reaffirming his artistic dedication even in his final years.

Pierre Auguste Renoir
Totem

Haring’s *Totem* explores universal human connection through a towering, minimalist structure. Reflecting indigenous and ancient artistic traditions, the figures on the sculpture interlock in a continuous embrace, symbolizing unity. Created near the end of Haring’s life, the work embodies themes of mortality, resilience, and the power of collective strength.

Keith Haring
Anguish 303, 2018

Deok’s *Anguish 303* depicts a figure cowering in distress, composed entirely of welded chains. The material symbolizes both strength and confinement, reflecting the struggles of modern existence. The faceless form invites viewers to project their own emotions onto the piece.

Seo Young Deok
God of the Water

This monumental sculpture reimagines water deities beyond the Western archetype of Poseidon. Hirt’s *God of the Waters* exudes serenity rather than power, inviting contemplation. At night, an ethereal mist and illuminated figures inside the sculpture create a theatrical, otherworldly experience, reinforcing its mystical nature.

Rudolf Hirt
The Inner Voice, 1886

Rodin’s *The Inner Voice* is a dynamic yet introspective sculpture, capturing movement and emotion through its twisted form. Originally part of *The Gates of Hell*, the work represents meditation and inner struggle. Rodin’s decision to leave it unfinished adds to its philosophical depth, inviting viewers to complete its meaning.

Auguste Rodin

Sculptures that breathe life into the garden, blending imagination with nature’s beauty.

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The Giardino Botanico – Fondazione André Heller houses around 3000 plant species from all over the world as well as works of art by Keith Haring, Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, Fernand Leger and many more.

The Garden brief history
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A botanical catalogue of the most iconic plants & their stories.

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Osmunda
Regalis

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Ficus
elastica

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Colocasia
esculenta

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Ginko
Biloba

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Phyllostachys

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Draecena
draco

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Equisetum hiemale

Multimedia

Multimedia contents and Immersive Motion

A collection of immersive contents

From exclusive interviews to immersive videos, this collection reflects the dynamic spirit of the garden throughout the year. 

Events

News & upcoming events at Heller Garden

Visitor Info

Admission

Adults ( 16 and older)

€12

Groups (min. 15 pp)

€11

Children (6 to 11 yrs)
& school classes

€5

Children (0 to 5 yrs)

Free

Opening hours

Daily

9 AM - 7 PM

Closed from
1st November to 28th February

A visual journey through the eye of a photographer that captures the botanical garden’s ever-changing beauty across the seasons.

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The Garden

Nestled on Lake Garda, the Giardino Botanico – Fondazione André Heller is a living masterpiece that unites nature and art. Among its 3,000 plant species from around the globe stand sculptures by renowned artists like Keith Haring, Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, and Fernand Léger. This breathtaking oasis invites visitors to explore a harmonious fusion of botanical wonders and contemporary creativity.

The garden’s story began in 1903 with Austrian Professor Arturo Hruska, a celebrated dentist who treated European high society and was captivated by the lake’s beauty. Decades later, world-famous artist André Heller rediscovered this hidden treasure and welcomed luminaries such as Lou Reed, Laurie Anderson, and David Bowie. Today, the legacy endures under the caring stewardship of Jovanka and Hans Porsche, who, together with André Heller, ensure the Giardino Botanico remains a sanctuary of inspiration and awe.
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