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Italian Garden
A series of terraces links the house to the lake and leads the eye onwards to the distinctive slopes of the Sugar Loaf mountain. These terraces were constructed between 1843 and 1867, a feat which required great skill to correct levels and to resolve drainage problems. Up to a hundred labourers with horses and carts were employed in the work.
The terraces were ornamented with statuary, using marble on the upper terrace and bronze on the levels below. The statuary was collected during the 19th century by the 6th and 7th Viscounts from many parts of Europe. The 7th Viscount delighted in identifying objects which would be suitable for Powerscourt and either purchased originals or commissioned fine quality replicas. The life size winged horses guarding the lake, part of the family coat of arms, were made in Berlin in 1869. Every detail of the terrace area was carefully designed. It is no accident that there is perfect harmony between the slopes, statues, perron, formal flower beds, lakes and surrounding trees. The result is a view which is magnificent in every season.



