St. Therese Garden

The St. Therese Garden (Giardino di Santa Teresa) is a place of special veneration and silence within the Vatican Gardens. It is dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux, who was declared the patroness of the Vatican Gardens in 1927 by Pope Pius XI. At the center of the site stands a life-size bronze statue of the saint, who is often depicted with roses, alluding to her promise to let roses rain down on earth after her death. The garden's design is emphasized as simple and contemplative, with beds planted primarily with flowers that play a role in the saint's spirituality. This area was created to provide a space for personal prayer and meditation under the open sky. Pope Pius XI held a deep personal devotion to the 'Little Flower' and significantly promoted the establishment of this memorial site. The atmosphere is enhanced by the surrounding pines and the discreet location, making the garden one of the quietest spots within the walls. For many visitors and Vatican staff, this garden is a symbol of humility and the power of the 'Little Way' that the saint taught.

History & landmarks

Vatican City Heliport

The heliport is located at the westernmost tip of the state.

Vatican City Railway Station

The only railway station in the world's smallest state.

Bunker Access

A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

Fountain of the Galley

A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.

Porta Pertusa

This historical gate in the Leonine Wall dates from the 16th century and is located near the Vatican heliport.

Ethiopian College Terrace

A distinct topographic step in the heart of the Vatican Gardens.

The Nativity Grotto

The Nativity Grotto is a religious rock formation within the gardens.

Nature

Palm Tree Collection

The gardens house an impressive variety of palm species from tropical regions.

Citrus Grove

In this protected area, various citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits grow.

Israel Olive Tree

This centuries-old olive tree was a gift from the State of Israel to the Vatican.

Japanese Maple Area

Various species of Japanese maple are planted in a special part of the gardens.

More places

Tower of San Giovanni

A massive tower in the Vatican Gardens, part of the medieval fortifications.

Ethiopian College

The only educational institution located entirely within the territory of Vatican City.

Governatorato Palace

The administrative center of Vatican City, housing the government of the state.

Palace of Leo XIII

This elegant building in the Vatican Gardens was designed as a summer residence for Pope Leo XIII.

San Carlo Palace

A significant residential building within the Vatican, serving as a residence for clerics and officials of the Roman Curia.

Canons' Palace

This monumental residential complex houses the canons of St.

Church of Santa Maria della Pietà

The national church for the German-speaking population in the Vatican, located directly adjacent to the Campo Santo Teutonico.

Palace of the Sacristy

This massive building houses the sacristy of St.