The Villa d'Este in Tivoli is one of the most remarkable and comprehensive illustrations of Renaissance culture at its most refined. Owing to its innovative design and the creativity and ingenuity of the architectural components in the gardens (fountains, ornamental basins, etc.), it is a true water garden and a unique example of an Italian 16th century garden. The Villa d'Este, one of the first giardini delle meraviglie, served as a model for and had a decisive influence on the development of gardens in Europe.