THE ENGLISH GARDEN,Caserta. (Albumen Print)
At the time of Goethe's visit Naples was the base of the Royal Court and was an essential destination for many Grand Tourers. In addition to the obvious attractions such as Pompeii, Vesuvius and the dramatic coastline, the recently completed Palace at Caserta aroused considerable interest. The Queen had engaged Sir William Hamilton (the British Ambassador and husband of the infamous Lady Hamilton) to design a garden in the English style. This part of the garden, called the 'Baths of Diana' survives from the time of Goethe's visit.
"...The site is uncommonly fine, on one of the most fertile plains in the world. The gardens are beautifully laid out, and suit well with a district which itself is thought a garden."
Naples March 14th 1787