There is a place in the heart of Sardinia where water has always reigned supreme and contrasts with the rest of the island which is too often forced to deal with droughtespecially in the summer months. We are in Laconi, a municipality in the province of Oristano which, thanks to its strategic position and its natural riches – the water ones first of all – has enjoyed a “privileged” status since its inception. Inhabited since prehistoric times, as demonstrated by the numerous archaeological finds, Laconi is a village that has gone through centuries of history, maintaining an important role in the region. A role that became even more fundamental in the 18th century, under the control of the Aymerich family, when the municipality transformed into a noble and flourishing centre.
The Aymerich family, in fact, made the most of the many resources and not only built the castle – whose ruins still dominate the landscape today – but also gave life to what would become the Aymerich Park, one of the most important green areas on the island . With its over 22 hectares of surface area, in fact, it still represents today the largest urban park of Sardinia as well as a place of wonder for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in nature. Here, water is the protagonist element, set in a breathtaking landscape between waterfalls, streams and ancient ruins.
The history of the Aymerich Park of Laconi
Aymerich Park is the fruit of the romantic vision of Count Ignazio Aymerichwho in the 19th century decided to transform the lands around the Laconi castle into a English gardenfollowing the landscape fashion of the time. This style, developed in England in the 18th century, aimed to recreate nature in a seemingly pristine and spontaneous way, in contrast to the formal, geometric gardens of the Baroque period.
Count Aymerich, who was a botanist, wanted the park to be a place where man could immerse himself in a natural landscape, characterized by streams, waterfalls and lush vegetationwhich included exotic plants like the cedar of Lebanon, The ginkgo biloba or theeucalyptus globulus – also called blue tree – but also native species such as holm oaks and oaks.
The ruins of the medieval castle, preserved within the park, were integrated into the landscape to strengthen the sense of mystery and melancholy, typical of the romantic garden. The Aymerich Park, with its winding paths and its historical ruins, therefore represents a perfect example of an English garden where nature is free and capable on its own – without the intervention of man – of arousing emotions.
In this garden the beauty of natural landscapes is expressed at its best: plants and flowers are planted according to a pre-established idea, but they are lush and free to express themselves in all their splendor.
The attractions of the park: what to see in Ayjmerich Park?
The Aymerich Park it is still today a natural oasis that offers numerous points of interest, perfect for a day of discovery, relaxation and contact with nature. From ancient history to natural wonders, the park offers a variety of attractions that make it an ideal place for both families and history and botany enthusiasts.
The ruins of Laconi Castle
One of the most fascinating symbols of the park and of Laconi itself are the suggestive ones ruins of Aymerich Castledating back to the 11th century. This ancient castle, originally built to defend the territory, still stands today as evidence of Laconi’s medieval past. Located on a hill overlooking the park, the castle was partially destroyed over time, but its ruins offer an atmosphere full of mystery, in perfect harmony with the lush vegetation that surrounds it. The castle has a main room where it is possible to see some stone seats and a beautiful Gothic window which offers a panorama of the village below and, in the distance, the Marmilla with the Giara plateau
Waterfalls and streams
One of the most characteristic elements of Aymerich Park is water. The waterfalls found within it, including the spectacular Cascata Maggiore, are fed by highly calcareous streams and natural springs that flow between the trees, creating a fresh and relaxing atmosphere as well as literally “petrifying” leaves, branches and fences.
The flora of the park
The Aymerich Park, as mentioned, is a real one open-air botanical gardenwhich is home to an incredible variety of plants, both native, such as holm oak and oak, which coexist in harmony together with exotic plants imported by Count Aymerich. This makes every walk an unmissable journey for lovers of nature and biodiversity.
The abandoned railway
A testimony to the industrial history of Laconi is the old railwaythe only railway that crossed this area of Sardinia. Today the tracks have been incorporated by vegetation, but they represent a suggestive memory of the past, when the railway was the main means of connection for the transport of goods and people between Laconi and the other areas of the island. This corner of the park is ideal for those who want to walk in an atmosphere of times gone by, where nature has taken over human structures.
The paths of the park: a journey through nature
Aymerich Park is crossed by numerous well-marked paths, ideal for exploring the park on foot also based on the various themes. Among the most suggestive:
The Waterfall Trail
An itinerary that follows the course of the streams and leads to the Castle Waterfall. The sound of flowing water and the shade of the trees make this walk particularly relaxing.
The Botanical Trail
An educational trail that crosses the main wooded areas of the park, offering information on the different plant species present. Perfect for botany enthusiasts and for those who want to learn more about the rich Sardinian flora.
The Ruins Path
This path leads directly to the ruins of the castle, passing through some panoramic points that allow you to admire the park from above.
How to get there and useful information
The Aymerich Park is easily accessible from the center of Laconi, and is open all year round. It is ideal for a day trip, perfect for families, history buffs or simply anyone who wants to enjoy a quiet day surrounded by nature. Entrance is free, and in the park there is a picnic area where you can stop for an outdoor lunch.
For all the information or to organize a guided excursion to one of the most beautiful villages in Sardinia, we recommend www.delacon.it
A corner of paradise in Sardinia, a place where history and nature blend harmoniously, giving visitors an unforgettable experience.
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