This long avenue is part of the renovations commenced by Cosimo II and laid out by Giulio Parigi, architect of the Amphitheater. The Viottolone (literally, "large path") was intended as a carriage lane. Once you have walked from the Gardens entrance to the far end of the Viottolone, you'll understand the need for wheels! The cypresses flanking the lane were planted in 1612. At the left (facing the Island Basin), there was once a series of three labyrinths; these were destroyed, unfortunately, in 1834 and all that remains of them are the rectangular areas which contained them. These still make pleasant, shady areas in which to lose one's self for a little while, read a book, or get some shady relief from your long walk.