Among the miscellaneous wonders, or at least curiosities, that the
traveler may behold as he passes through Italy, may be mentioned the
_tree temple_, a view of which is given in the engraving below. This
singular tree is one of the curious ornaments of a beautiful estate,
called Matibo, in the neighborhood of Savigliano, in Piedmont, in
northern Italy. It was planted some seventy years ago; but it was only
within some thirty years that the idea was started of making it grow in
the form of a temple, which, after much time, perseverance and labor,
was finally realized. It consists, as may be seen in the engraving, of
two stories, each of which has eight windows, and is capable of
containing twenty persons. The floors are formed of branches twined
together with great skill, and covered by nature with leafy carpets; and
all around, the natural growth and verdure of the tree have formed thick
walls, where flocks of birds have taken up their abodes and built their
nests. The proprietor of the island Matibo has never disturbed these
joyous little tenants of his property, but rather encouraged their
presence; so that at all hours of the day, they may be heard fearlessly
sporting and warbling, to the delight of the numerous visitors, who here
enjoy alike the cool breezes and the beautiful prospect.