Let the biodiversity hunt begin!
This weekend, the valley beside the Siena Art Institute will transform into a vibrant outdoor laboratory. Join us for BioBlitz, a special event celebrating nature, observation, and biodiversity.
What is BioBlitz?
The Porta Giustizia Valley, once called the “Peacock” Valley, is a peaceful woodland nestled just below the Siena Art Institute. This area connects directly to the Hidden Garden and OrtoAperto, the Institute’s community garden and sustainability project spaces.
During the BioBlitz weekend, the valley becomes the stage for a hands-on nature exploration. The event invites nature lovers, amateur photographers, students, and curious minds to observe and document local wildlife, plants, and fungi.
How Does It Work?
Led by scientists and field experts, participants will explore the valley and identify various species. With the help of guides, you’ll learn how to recognize flora and fauna while recording your discoveries. All data will be submitted through the iNaturalist app, contributing to a global biodiversity database.
This isn’t just a local effort, it’s also part of the City Nature Challenge, a friendly international competition where cities across the world document their ecosystems. Siena has ranked among the top cities for biodiversity data collected in past years. Let’s keep the streak going!
Art meets Nature
On Sunday, April 27, the Siena Art Institute will offer an artistic twist to the event. Inspired by the Hidden Garden Enciclopedia project, we invite participants to reflect on their discoveries through art.
You’ll receive special paper, crayons, markers…just bring your creativity! At the end of the day, we’ll collect everyone’s drawings, notes, and observations to create a collaborative illustrated encyclopedia of the Valley. Expect a joyful mix of science, community, and creativity. Our staff will also be present to give some insight on our sustainability projects and Community Garden inviting the participants to future events and happenings here at SART!
Want to Join?
Click here to sign up or learn more. Whether you come for the science, the nature walk, or the art-making, BioBlitz promises a weekend full of discovery.
The event has been organized by the Accademia dei Fisiocritici natural history museum, in collaboration with Museo Botanico e Orto Botanico, Università di Siena Dipartimento di Scienze della vita, WWF Siena, Legambiente circolo di Siena, Rete degli Orti, Amici del boschetto di San Miniato, Fondazione Musei Senesi, Humus, Ortofrutteto dell’Università di Siena, URadio and with the sponsorship and contribute of Comune di Siena and the sponsorship of Università di Siena, National Biodiversity Future Center, Citizen Science Italia and Alleanza territoriale Carbon Neutrality Siena.
