MIDSUMMER SOLSTICE AT THE BOTANICAL GARDENS OF LOMBARDY: A NETWORKED EVENT OF EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION.

Resumen

The Network of Botanic Gardens in Lombardy, formed in 2002, links the realities of Bergamo, Bormio (Sondrio), Cascina Rosa - Milan, Brera – Milano, Pavia, Romagnese (PV) and Toscolano Maderno (BS). These Botanic Gardens work together to attain common objectives. ‘Midsummer at the Botancial Gardens’ has been celebrated each year since 2004. The objective of the event is to promote the Botanic Gardens of Lombardy, to involve the general public offering new experiences and strengthening the knowledge of the Region’s historical, cultural and botanical patrimony. The Gardens organised guided tours, conferences, photographic and painting exhibitions, concerts, astronomical observations as well as laboratories for adults and children during the last three editions.  In some cases the Midsummer event was part of local events, for example the Notte Bianca (White Night) in Milan and Museum Night at Bergamo.  The various initiatives were nearly always carried out in partnership with other organisations. In fact, the number of visitors has increased each year and their requirements have changed, the Network is now well known by the local media. This paper presents the results of the initiative and evaluates this method of networking for the Botanical Gardens as an aid in achieving their many goals, particularly those of conservation and education.