The Ancient Medical School of Salerno:
the Gardens of Minerva

A Botanical Heritage of the Salernitan Medical School
Considered a botanical masterpiece curated by the illustrious master of the Salernitan Medical School, Matteo Silvatico (13th-14th century), author of the "Liber cibalis et medicinalis Pandectarum". This precious compendium gathered information on "simplicia", namely plants used for medicinal purposes.

An Innovative Botanical Collection
In the Gardens of Minerva, numerous plants and herbs were cultivated and classified for the first time in history. This unique environment allowed for the scientific study of their therapeutic and medicinal properties. The favorable microclimate, characterized by the low incidence of north winds and favorable exposure, still allows the spontaneous growth of various plant species today.

Innovations in Irrigation and Water Distribution
The Gardens of Minerva featured a complex system of irrigation water distribution, composed of channels, basins, and fountains arranged along terraces. This infrastructure ensured the health of the plants and the prosperity of the botanical garden.

An Educational and Training Environment
The botanical garden was not only a cultivation space but also a place of learning and teaching for the students of the Salernitan Medical School. Here, plants were shown and studied with their names and properties, enriching the students' knowledge.

A Pioneer in European Botanical Gardens
The Gardens of Minerva were the first botanical garden in Europe dedicated to the cultivation and collection of "simplicia," plants used for therapeutic purposes. This model influenced the creation of renowned botanical gardens throughout Europe, including those in Padua, Pisa, Florence, Pavia, and Bologna.

Legacy and Continuity
The importance of the Gardens of Minerva is also reflected in subsequent works, such as Matteo Plateario's "De medicinis simplicibus," which significantly contributed to the study of medicinal herbs.

The Gardens of Minerva remain a historical testament and a botanical heritage of inestimable value, continuing to inspire and educate present and future generations about the benefits of plants for human health.

Here are some images of how it looks today:

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