Forestiere Underground Gardens | Fresno

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are a unique, historical site located in Fresno, California, that showcases the extraordinary vision and craftsmanship of Baldassare Forestiere, an Italian immigrant who spent over 40 years creating this underground sanctuary. The gardens are a remarkable feat of ingenuity and perseverance, offering visitors a glimpse into an underground world that combines elements of architecture, horticulture, and history.

History and Origins

Baldassare Forestiere arrived in the United States from Sicily in the early 1900s, seeking opportunities in the agricultural heartland of California. After purchasing land in Fresno, he encountered a challenge: the soil was too hard and unyielding to farm in the traditional way. Determined to make the land productive, Forestiere took an unconventional approach—he began digging underground. Over the next 40 years, using only simple hand tools, he created a sprawling subterranean network that would eventually become the Forestiere Underground Gardens.

Drawing inspiration from ancient Roman catacombs and wine cellars, Forestiere carefully carved out more than 65 rooms and passageways, some reaching as deep as 25 feet below ground. His aim was to create a cool, sheltered environment that would protect his plants from the extreme summer heat and winter frost of the Central Valley. The underground complex features a natural ventilation system, with arches and skylights allowing air to circulate and sunlight to penetrate, keeping the temperature around 10–20°F cooler than the surface.

The Gardens and Horticulture

Forestiere’s ingenuity extended to his use of plants. He didn’t just create a home or a space for personal enjoyment—he built an agricultural paradise. The underground gardens cover more than 10 acres, and Forestiere cultivated a wide variety of fruit trees that were well-suited to the subterranean environment. The gardens are unique because Forestiere used a technique called grafting, in which different varieties of fruit-bearing trees were grafted together to produce multiple types of fruit on a single tree.

Some of the fruit trees found in the gardens include:

Oranges

Lemons

Kumquats

Dates

Pomegranates

Grapes

Figs

The underground environment helped the trees thrive, as the temperature remained consistent, protecting them from the frost that could destroy crops above ground. Forestiere’s innovative design ensured that the trees were also shielded from the harsh California sun, which would otherwise scorch the fruit. The subterranean nature of the garden provided the perfect conditions for fruit production.

Architectural Features

The architecture of the Forestiere Underground Gardens is heavily influenced by Roman design, particularly the use of arches, domes, and columns. Forestiere was a self-taught architect, and his understanding of construction techniques is evident in the beauty and functionality of the underground spaces. The most impressive architectural features include:

Arched doorways and ceilings: These help provide structural stability and create a sense of grandeur within the small, underground spaces.

Skylights: Circular openings in the ceilings allow sunlight to filter into the rooms and courtyards, creating a natural, ambient light that highlights the beauty of the plants and the space.

Ventilation system: The layout of the underground rooms and passageways promotes the flow of cool air, helping to regulate temperature and create a comfortable environment for both plants and visitors.

Visitor Experience

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are open to the public and offer guided tours that provide a fascinating insight into the history and construction of the site. During the tours, visitors can learn about Forestiere’s life, his struggles, and his unwavering determination to build the underground oasis.

Some of the key highlights during a tour include:

Exploring the underground rooms and passageways: Visitors can walk through the 65 rooms and marvel at the intricate construction, the cleverly designed skylights, and the thriving fruit trees.

Learning about the grafting techniques: Guides explain Forestiere’s unique methods for growing multiple types of fruit on a single tree.

Viewing the cool, underground atmosphere: The constant temperature below ground allows for a refreshing break from the heat of the Central Valley, making it an ideal summer destination.

Tours typically last between 45 minutes to an hour and are conducted by reservation to ensure a safe and intimate experience. Since the site is underground, the tours provide a unique opportunity to experience a cool, shaded environment that contrasts sharply with the hot California weather above.

Opening Hours and Admission

Hours of Operation: The Forestiere Underground Gardens are open year-round, with peak visitation during the spring and summer months. Tours are typically available daily, with some exceptions during holidays or for special events.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $20–$25

Children (under 12): $10–$15

Seniors: $15–$20

It’s recommended to make a reservation ahead of time, especially during the busy tourist season. The site also offers group rates for larger parties and educational tours for schools.

Location

Address: 5021 W. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, CA 93722, USA

Significance and Legacy

The Forestiere Underground Gardens stand as a testament to human creativity, resilience, and ingenuity. Forestiere's dedication to turning barren land into a productive underground sanctuary is a remarkable example of how one person can transform an idea into reality with hard work and innovation. The gardens are a historical landmark that showcases the fusion of art, architecture, and agriculture and are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Fresno or interested in unique architectural feats.

In addition to being a tourist attraction, the site is also a reminder of the immigrant experience in the United States, where people like Forestiere faced tremendous challenges but were able to use their skills and imagination to create something extraordinary. The Forestiere Underground Gardens offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore an awe-inspiring underground world created by a man whose vision was as far-reaching as the tunnels he dug.