Orticolario 2025: Rare Plants, Art Installations and Nature in Cernobbio
From October 2 to 5, 2025, Orticolario 2025 returned to Villa Erba in Cernobbio, on the shores of Lake Como. This international event celebrated nature, art and landscape culture.
For four days, the historic 19th-century park became a vibrant setting for creativity. In addition, the event welcomed over 250 Italian and international exhibitors.
Visitors had the opportunity to discover rare, unusual and collectible plants, alongside artistic handicrafts and impressive site-specific installations.
The programme also included workshops, meetings with landscape designers and agronomists, and activities for children. As a result, Orticolario offered experiences for visitors of all ages.
The 2025 Theme: Eden and Wild Edible Plants
The 15th edition of Orticolario explored the theme “Eden”.
Inspired by the idea of a primordial garden, the theme celebrated nature in its wildest and most authentic form. Rather than following strict rules, this imaginary garden encouraged freedom, biodiversity and discovery.
In particular, the event focused on wild edible plants, known in Italian as piante alimurgiche.
These naturally growing species highlighted the importance of foraging, the practice of gathering edible plants from the wild. Moreover, the theme encouraged visitors to rediscover a more sustainable relationship with nature.
Must-See Installations at Orticolario 2025 on Lake Como
Among the most anticipated projects was “Dzonot”, created by Jonathan Arnaboldi and Matteo Pellicanò.
The installation explored the relationship between light and shadow. At the same time, it invited visitors to reconnect with the untamed beauty of nature.
Other notable installations included:
- “Una passeggiata nel bosco” (A Walk in the Woods) by Marco Gramaglia, Laura Storero and Davide Bacci. This project focused on wild edible plants and their connection to the natural environment.
- “E quindi uscimmo a riveder le stelle” (And Then We Emerged to See the Stars Again) by Mantero Seta. The installation transformed Villa Erba’s entrance hall with a printed fabric sky, vegetation and designer seating.
Together, these projects combined art, creativity and botanical inspiration.
Orticolario 2025: Special Guest Antonia Klugmann
The special guest of Orticolario 2025 was Antonia Klugmann, Michelin-starred chef and owner of L’Argine a Vencò restaurant.
Known for her ethical approach to cooking and strong connection to the local landscape, Klugmann has made foraging an essential part of her culinary philosophy.
Through her cuisine, she transforms wild ingredients into creative and thoughtful dishes. Her approach therefore reflected the central theme of Orticolario 2025.
What’s New at Orticolario 2025 on Lake Como?
As in previous editions, Orticolario introduced several themed areas designed to enrich the visitor experience.
- AREA – Dedicated spaces celebrating cultural, creative and botanical excellence.
- Il Mercato di Orticolario – A welcoming market featuring organic products and handcrafted goods.
- Olistica – A wellness area curated by Margherita Sartori, offering activities such as yoga, hypnosis and naturopathy.
- Zona Tecnica – A dedicated area for gardening enthusiasts, featuring innovative solutions and expert advice.
Furthermore, these spaces allowed visitors to explore different aspects of gardening, sustainability and well-being.
Orticolario: Nature, Culture and Solidarity
Orticolario is much more than a garden show. It combines landscape culture, artistic creativity and charitable initiatives.
In particular, the event supports cultural and social projects through the Fondo Amici di Orticolario.
The funds collected help five local associations operating in the Lake Como area. Therefore, the event also contributes to the well-being of the surrounding community.
For the complete programme and official information, visit www.orticolario.it.
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