Exhibition “Italy: Garden of the World” Opens at the Faculty of Tourism and Rural Development in Požega

On 12 October 2026, the Faculty of Tourism and Rural Development in Požega, part of Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, and the Embassy of Italy in Zagreb officially opened the exhibition “Italy: Garden of the World – Where Nature, Art, Craftsmanship and Design Meet” in the Faculty courtyard.

The exhibition was opened by Maria Cristina Costa, Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Italy in Zagreb. On this occasion, she emphasised the importance of presenting Italy’s cultural and landscape heritage to Croatian audiences, as well as the significance of cooperation with the Faculty of Tourism and Rural Development in Požega.

The exhibition presents a representative selection of images and cultural perspectives on Italian gardens, offering visitors insight into the rich heritage of these “living monuments” through original photographs and historical documents. The exhibition is organised around seven thematic sections: the relationship between gardens and landscapes, design, water, botanical research, the relationship with the arts, the social dimension, and the value of professional knowledge and skills.

From the Renaissance and the emergence of the distinctive “Italian-style garden” to historic villas and monumental parks, and extending to contemporary public and private spaces, the exhibition traces the development of knowledge, practices and creative approaches that have shaped Italian garden culture over the centuries. At the same time, it offers a broader perspective on the relationship between people, nature, art and landscape, while highlighting the importance of preserving and understanding this valuable cultural heritage.

The opening ceremony particularly emphasised the importance of cooperation between the Faculty of Tourism and Rural Development in Požega and the Embassy of Italy in Zagreb, as well as their shared commitment to continuing joint projects and further strengthening ties in the fields of culture, education and international cooperation.

The exhibition “Italy: Garden of the World” will remain open to visitors until 12 November 2026.