Archive of Parc Scherrer

Nestled in the spectacular setting of the village of Morcote, overlooking Lake Lugano, Parco Scherrer was created in the 19th century by Arturo Scherrer, a textile merchant and passionate about culture and travel. It is a true botanical treasure, housing a diverse collection of exotic and native plants, set within lush gardens, groves of majestic trees, and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The picturesque dimension of the park lies in its carefully designed architectural and landscape layout, where paved paths wind between flower beds and ponds adorned with water lilies. Also known as the “Garden of Wonders,” this monumental park houses a rich collection of objects from different countries and eras, as well as buildings of various genres from around the world. For example, one can find a 1:4 scale replica of the Erechtheion from the Acropolis of Athens, an Indian pavilion built on the model of the Palazzo Salò in Brugine near Padua, or the Egyptian temple of Nefertiti, the interior of which is a faithful reproduction of the original. Upon exiting, one can also admire a typical 14th-century Ticino house, commissioned by Mr. Scherrer as a testament to his attachment to the region. Among all the objects in the collection, the Stencils and snake statues become the very embodiment of this quest for ideal beauty and its exotic derivations.