by InTrieste
As the sun sets on a balmy Sunday evening, Horti Tergestini, a botanical haven nestled in the heart of Trieste, Italy, radiates with a special vibrancy. It’s not just any birthday celebration—it’s a commemoration of the visionary Franco Basaglia, whose pioneering spirit continues to resonate a century after his birth.
At eighteen, the age of aspirations and possibilities, Basaglia embarked on a mission that would redefine the landscape of mental health care. His dream? To liberate individuals from the shackles of stigma, restoring their dignity and ushering in a new era of compassionate treatment. Today, as Horti Tergestini marks this milestone, it serves as a poignant reminder of Basaglia’s enduring legacy.
The once-dormant grounds of the San Giovanni asylum, now transformed into a thriving Cultural and Natural Park, stand as a testament to Basaglia’s unwavering commitment to change. Amidst the lush greenery and blooming roses, his vision lives on, inspiring generations to come.
But the festivities don’t end there. In a dazzling display of color and creativity, the cooperative Agricola Monte San Pantaleone has curated an exhibition of plants and flowers from across Italy and Slovenia. From exotic succulents to fragrant herbs, each specimen reflects the rich tapestry of floriculture thriving in the market today.
Giancarlo Carena, president of the cooperative, captures the essence of Basaglia’s vision: “This is a spring of rebirth, just as he envisioned—a celebration of diversity and inclusion.”
Indeed, as visitors weave through the labyrinthine pathways of the former psychiatric hospital, they are met with a kaleidoscope of botanical wonders. Rare orchids and towering palms vie for attention alongside whimsical sculptures crafted from wood, fabric, and iron—a testament to the boundless creativity unleashed within these walls.
But amidst the hustle and bustle, there is a quiet sense of reflection. In the shadow of Basaglia’s legacy, attendees are invited to partake in intimate workshops and discussions, exploring themes of mental health and community resilience.
And let’s not forget the little ones. As families wander hand in hand, children are invited to unleash their imagination in specially curated spaces, where they can plant seeds of hope and curiosity.
As the event draws to a close, one thing is clear: Basaglia’s dream lives on, not just in the petals of a rose or the laughter of a child, but in the hearts and minds of all who dare to dream of a more compassionate world. And in this shared moment of celebration, we are reminded that, indeed, at eighteen, one should be able to turn dreams into reality.
