The Cistercian Garden was created inside the Castrense Amphitheater , and was linked for centuries to the basilica and its convent. In 2004 the garden was recreated. The project was made by the architect Paolo Pejrone, and the work started with the aid of the “Friends of The Holy Cross in Jerusalem” Association.
The elliptical space is divided by two perpendicular paths covered by pergolas that meet at a central fountain. The carefully cultivated flower beds are full of herbs, fruit trees and various species of flowers whose arrangement not only is aesthetically pleasing, but also hides symbolic meanings. The general impression, crossing the curtain of colored glass of the entrance gate (made by Jannis Kounellis nel2007), is that of an extraordinary balance, peace and serenity.
The Monastic Garden is normally closed to the public, if you want to visit it click here