I step into the expansive backyard garden in Milan, Italy on a summer day, a sense of tranquility washes over me. Moments before our tour, my father and I drink to bastion our energy. My father rests his lips on his espresso cup, as I rest mine on a cup of freshly-squeezed oranges. The sun bathes the garden in a warm golden light, casting dappled shadows through the lush foliage. The air is alive with the buzzing of bees and the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

I walk along the stone bath, listening to nature’s bird orchestra symphonies as I pass by rows of vibrant roses and delicate lavender bushes. The colors seem to dance in the sunlight, creating a ballad of hues that soothe the soul. Tall cypress trees stand sentinel at the edge of the garden, their dark green foliage contrasting against the azure sky.

In a secluded corner, a bench stands alone, with its intricate wrought iron design and cascading vines. I can hear the gentle trickle of water from a nearby fountain, adding a musical backdrop to the chorus of cicadas and birdsong. Butterflies flit from flower to flower, adding flashes of color to the scene.

I find a cozy spot under a sprawling fig tree, its broad leaves providing welcome shade from the summer heat. From this point, I can admire the beauty of the garden in full bloom, a testament to nature's artistry and the skill of the gardener. In this moment, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this Italian paradise, I feel a deep sense of peace and connection to the natural world. I understood then why Da Vinci kept this property.

dAN aBARCA, tHE aNOMALY