Beneath Bologna’s vibrant tapestry of Renaissance architecture lies a hidden treasure, a collection of pressed flowers meticulously gathered five centuries ago by the renowned naturalist Ulisse Aldrovandi. These delicate specimens, now housed in the University of Bologna’s Herbarium, have emerged as an invaluable chronicle of the city’s shifting landscapes and the profound impact of human activities and climate change.
In 1551, Aldrovandi embarked on an ambitious project to document the flora of Bologna and its surrounding hills. Over 35 years, he meticulously collected, pressed, and labelled thousands of plants, creating one of the wealthiest and most comprehensive botanical records of its time.
These pressed flowers, now fragile and yellowed with age, hold a wealth of information about the region’s diverse plant life. Aldrovandi’s meticulous notes reveal the presence of species that are now rare or even extinct, such as the motherwort, a medicinal plant that was once widely used for treating various ailments.
The herbarium also provides insights into the broader ecological changes that have shaped Bologna’s landscapes. The influx of non-native species, driven by human migration and trade, is evident in American plants like sweet peppers and courgettes, introduced during the Renaissance period.
Climate change has also left its mark on the herbarium, with species typically found at higher altitudes appearing in lower elevations during colder temperatures. This data aligns with historical records of the so-called “Little Ice Age,” a period of global cooling that extended from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
The significance of Aldrovandi’s pressed flowers extends beyond their historical value. They serve as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the profound impact of human activities on ecosystems. As we grapple with climate change and biodiversity loss, these preserved specimens offer valuable lessons from the past, guiding our efforts to conserve and restore the natural world.
In recent years, herbarians have faced challenges due to funding cuts and a perception that they are outdated and irrelevant. However, the study of pressed flowers is undergoing a renaissance, as researchers recognize their unique potential to provide insights into past and present environmental changes.
The University of Bologna’s Herbarium, with its vast collection of pressed flowers and Aldrovandi’s meticulous notes, is a testament to the enduring importance of these historical records. As we navigate the complexities of the Anthropocene, these preserved specimens stand as a testament to our shared past with nature and a call to action for a more sustainable future.