Summer Vacation, Part 2

Another highlight of my visit to California was touring Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, a California State Landmark.

The vine-covered entrance to the gardens.

Built by a Sicilian immigrant in the early 1900's, the subterranean system of tunnels and rooms covered 10 acres. He built everything by hand using these implements.

After he had purchased the land, he realized the ground was too hard to plant anything, so he planted trees and vines underground, with skylights to provide light and water.

He also lived there. Here is a courtyard with his bathtub.

His bedroom.

And the kitchen.

It was a fascinating place to visit, and a good way to beat the heat!