Biblioteca degli Alberi Milano, Milan

Biblioteca degli Alberi Milano is a public urban park whose planting turns the idea of a library into a landscape. Different plant species are arranged in themed areas, while the unfenced paths blend the park with Porta Nuova. With over 100 species, more than 500 trees grouped into 22 circular groves, and roughly 135,000 plants across 95,000 square metres, it ranks as central Milan’s third-largest green area.

Look toward the small pond, the hedge maze, and the pathways carrying poetic inscriptions. You can also find a children’s playground, a fitness area, picnic spaces, and wooden chaise longues for resting. The park opened on 27 October 2018 after a design competition won by Inside Outside, the studio founded by Petra Blaisse; Piet Oudolf also worked on the project. Its year-round programme brings free concerts, markets, sports, and workshops into this planted setting.