Day 6

Today, we had a difficult choice to make…Visit Pompeii – the city that was suddenly frozen in time under piles of volcanic ash, or Caserta – the Italian palace and garden that inspired the creation of Versailles.  In the end we chose Caserta due to recent labor strikes taking place in Pompeii and the uncertainty of being able to get in to see the ruins.

We boarded a train and were rocked back to sleep as we slowly made our way to Caserta.  Upon first arrival to the Royal Palace at Caserta, we noticed the parterres filled with weeds, which had us quite concerned whether we’d made a good choice.  We discovered quickly, however, that unlike Americans, Italians are far less concerned with the front lawn areas than the entertaining areas.  Once we entered the palace and laid eyes on the main staircase our worries vanished!

First, we toured the gardens, which were the focal point from the center of the palace.  Three miles of walkways that pass by greenspace, fountains, and ponds lead to a grand waterfall flowing down from the mountain.  This stretch of the garden is truly spectacular in a way that we’ve yet to experience.

We started off on the path walking up and up and up…and finally after many breathers and pauses for pictures, we arrived at le piece de resistance…the waterfall.  After taking many pictures of the spectacular fountain and view back towards the house, we ventured toward a side garden that was reminiscent of an arboretum.  There were clues of this gardens history with hidden follies and classic conservatories throughout.  One of our favorite areas was a lily pad covered pond with an island with old structures built upon it.  Apparently, water is our thing!

Following a brisk walk back down the three-mile hill, we ate lunch in the cafteria and then toured the palace.  Incredible!  (The guidebooks weren’t lying when they claim that this place was the inspiration for Versailles.)  We much preferred the pink and beige marble of Caserta to the gilding of Versailles!

To end the day, a series of over-crowded trains and buses brought us to our home away from home that we’ve come to love…Trestavere.  Home sweet home!