Aymerich Park

Aymerich Park, in Laconi on the border between the Oristano and Nuoro areas, is the largest urban park in Sardinia. Covering around 22 hectares, it combines rare plants, woodland, streams and medieval ruins, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers, walkers and visitors interested in botany.

The history of Aymerich Park

Once owned by the Aymerich marquises, the park was developed in the 19th century by Ignazio Aymerich Ripoll, a passionate botanist who introduced unusual plant species collected during his travels and transformed the estate into an exceptional green space.

Flora and fauna

The park is notable for its biodiversity. Holm oaks, other oak species, olive and carob trees grow alongside native orchids and exotic specimens such as Lebanese and Himalayan cedars, Corsican pine and magnolia. The result is an unusually varied botanical landscape in the centre of Laconi.

The medieval ruins

A path through the park leads to the remains of a 13th-century castle connected with the historic conflicts between the Judicates of Arborea and Cagliari. The main tower, later used as a prison, and surviving architectural elements preserve traces of Sardinia’s medieval past.

Water in the park

Streams, small waterfalls and pools are central to Aymerich Park’s character and biodiversity. The main waterfall is one of the most attractive natural features along the walking routes.

Palazzo Aymerich and the Museum of Prehistoric Statuary

Beyond the park, Laconi is home to Palazzo Aymerich, which houses a museum dedicated to prehistoric statuary and displays menhirs and other pre-Nuragic finds from the area.

Following in the footsteps of Saint Ignatius

Laconi is also the birthplace of Saint Ignatius of Laconi. Visitors interested in local religious history can include his birthplace and the museum dedicated to him in the same itinerary.