In the past, situated in the Republic of Lucca, right on the border with the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, Villa Garzoni lies at the foot of the town of Collodi, almost as though it supported its weight. The first certain news of the villa built by marquis Romano Garzoni, dates to the first half of the 17th century. In the 18th century, architect Ottaviano Diodati from Lucca built the elegant little summer house and organised the garden.

The garden’s planimetric layout was influenced by the marked sloping of the terrain, and is characterised by terracing along an axis of symmetry. A synthesis between a Renaissance geometric nature and Baroque spectacularity, the garden has a vegetation theatre, a labyrinth made of hedges, and a baths building. By means of a complex hydraulic system, several of its numerous statues create waterworks, which marquis Antonio Mazzarosa considered unique, at least in Italy: «The garden resembles a theatrical set. And even more wonderful it appears when its abundant water creates numerous effects. A veritable torrent gushes forth from the trumpet of a toweringly colossal statue representing Fame, that stands on top of the hill. From a large basin, water spreads out in various forms over a long, broad, strongly inclined surface, falling bubbling among the rocks, and concluding its course in two exquisite fountains below […]. Superb woods of holm-oak surround the garden on every side and with their sombre hue lend emphasis to the statues, architectural ornaments and especially to the water of Fame and the waterfall». Observed from above, the beds are laid out with a curious optical effect that exploits the laws of perspective.

The town, villa and garden are three elements which, though clearly distinct, harmoniously complement each other. The Monumental Park of Pinocchio, located in the vicinity of the Villa, is a strong tourist attraction and, at the same time, an example of great architectural importance.