The woods historically named "La Ragnaia"

This woods was designed as a “ragnaia” or bird catch which was a common garden element also found in the Medici gardens. Large nets covered the trees to catch and hunt small birds for entertainment. It was probably never used in this way but the wooded zone both created a variety of experience and also defined the lower and upper zones of the garden. The paths were laid in a geometric pattern and also with ramps that once again repeat the trapezoid geometry seen in the formal garden below. The evergreen Oak trees and Viburnums were tightly planted to provide a refuge from the hot sun in the summer.