Mantova lanscape strategy
Mantova, Italy
Mantua is a unique city shaped by the coexistence of cultural heritage and remarkable natural systems. Surrounded by lakes, wetlands and the Mincio River—and recognised by UNESCO as a cultural landscape—Mantua has long been defined by the dialogue between water, land and human settlement.
The Mantua Green Plan sets out a long-term vision for a more resilient, accessible and ecological city. It interprets Mantua as a city of confluence, where urban, fluvial and agricultural ecosystems meet and form an interconnected landscape. At the southern edge of the city, the Plan establishes a new ecological corridor of over 115 hectares, reconnecting Lake Superior with the Vallazza wetlands by restoring the ancient basin of the former “fourth lake” (Lago Paiolo).
Across the urban fabric, the Plan introduces a network of Green Streets – over 100 kilometres of tree-lined corridors that provide shade, improve environmental performance and serve as the primary structure of the city’s ecological network.
The Plan is structured around ecosystems, ecological corridors, urban forestry areas and water-management basins, supported by nature-based solutions and clear design guidelines.
Together, these elements outline a practical path to a healthier, more connected and climate-responsive Mantua.
An ecological link built around the restored basin of the former “fourth lake” reconnects the city with the lakes and the Vallazza wetlands.
Acting as the backbone of the Landscape Strategy, the guidelines explain how landscape can become the city’s core infrastructure. They outline actionable strategies—rooted in nature-based solutions—that improve climate resilience, ecological continuity and everyday urban life.
A 100-km network of Green Streets forms the backbone of Mantua’s fine-grained urban ecological system.
