Taormina, Sicily – Work is set to begin shortly to secure Parco Trevelyan, a historic garden dedicated to the memory of English noblewoman Florence Trevelyan, following damage sustained during recent severe weather. The local administration, led by Mayor Cateno De Luca, has allocated €50,000 for initial emergency repairs, focusing on the removal of unstable pine trees and assessing the condition of the park’s iconic towers. The move comes after Cyclone Harry caused widespread damage across Sicily earlier this year, impacting infrastructure and tourism.
The park, often described as one of the most unique gardens in the Mediterranean, sustained damage from falling trees during the storms. An analysis following the cyclone revealed at least seven pine trees pose a stability risk and require removal, in addition to six already uprooted by the strong winds. The immediate priority is to craft the public space safe for visitors, according to officials. The park’s unique character and historical significance make these repairs crucial for both local residents and the tourism sector.
While the initial funding focuses on tree removal and safety, the possibility of restoring the park’s distinctive “torrette” – small towers – is also under consideration. Mayor De Luca’s office indicated that funds will be allocated for this purpose, though a specific timeline and budget have not yet been determined. Restoration of these structures has been discussed for years, and the recent damage may provide the impetus for a comprehensive overhaul.
The park’s history is deeply intertwined with that of Florence Trevelyan, an English gardener and conservationist who resided in Taormina in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Trevelyan created the garden and its whimsical structures, leaving a lasting legacy on the Sicilian landscape. The park has also served as a backdrop for international events, including a breakfast hosted for the ladies attending the G7 summit, with attendees including then-US President Donald Trump.
Cyclone Harry’s Impact on Sicily
The need for repairs at Parco Trevelyan is part of a larger effort to address the widespread damage caused by Cyclone Harry in January 2026. Euronews reported that Sicily is assessing up to €1 billion in damage from the storm, which devastated coastal infrastructure and disrupted tourism. Mayor De Luca has called for urgent action to address the crisis, citing losses to public works, electricity networks, and local businesses. The storm brought unprecedented wave heights – exceeding 12 meters – to the eastern Ionian coast.
The initial €50,000 allocated for Parco Trevelyan represents a first step in the recovery process. Officials acknowledge that a complete restoration of the park, including the torrette, will require a more substantial investment and a detailed plan. One of the towers, previously restored, was unfortunately damaged by a falling tree, highlighting the vulnerability of the park’s structures.
Future of the Park and Restoration Efforts
Despite a partial reopening, the park’s current condition is described as “not befitting” one of the Mediterranean’s most distinctive gardens. The complete reopening of the park, including access to the torrette, is expected to take a significant amount of time. The torrette themselves have been closed to the public even before the recent storm damage.
The administration is committed to a comprehensive restoration plan, recognizing the park’s importance to Taormina’s cultural heritage and tourism appeal. Local reports indicate that the focus will be on ensuring the long-term safety and accessibility of the park for both residents and visitors.
As work begins on removing the hazardous trees, attention will turn to developing a detailed restoration plan for the torrette and other park features. The hope is that Parco Trevelyan will soon be fully restored to its former glory, continuing to serve as a beautiful and historically significant landmark for generations to come.
What comes next will depend on the detailed assessments of the torrette’s structural integrity and the development of a comprehensive restoration plan. The community and visitors alike will be watching closely as Taormina works to revitalize this beloved green space. Share your thoughts on the park’s future in the comments below.
