Religion
was a major contributing factor in the construction of gardens during the Empire
and beyond. Christianity was becoming deeply entrenched across the nations, and
so was Islam. Over time, three distinct types of gardens grew apart: the Roman
style, the mediaeval style, and the Muslim style. Each style focuses
differently on the religion that was prominent in the area, and has different
elements that allow different forms of worship within the garden.
The
roman garden was very ornamental, large, and luxurious. The garden was a place
of inspiration for the Romans. They participated in what is called Otium, which
is supposed to be a constructive leisure time. They could be constructive
through meditation, philosophy, and even reflection on the Gods and their own
religion. With such beautiful gardens surrounding them, they could be inspired
to form creative and original thoughts to establish themselves with the Gods.
(http://blogs.getty.edu/iris/files/2010/10/villa_outer_peristyle.jpg)
This garden was very dedicated to the Gods, very deliberately. One piece of
evidence of this was the herm statues that were studded around the garden
landscape. They were there to create a blessing from that God and to inspire peace,
happiness, and creativity.
Medieval
garden was small and enclosed. When made under the aristocracy, it was
oftentimes placed far into the corner of a castle for those living in the
castle to enjoy. It was very much an isolated place, far from the noises,
smells, and sights of the castle life. It was a humble sanctuary.
(http://www.peartree-miniatures.co.uk/topics/gardens/medgarden01.jpg)
This was a place for meditation and a place to reflect on one’s own life. You
could have the silence, the isolation, and the time to consider your
relationship to God. The plants in the garden were not particularly ornamental
or ‘showy’ nor did they have many statues or paintings dedicated to God in the
gardens. The plants that they did have were scented in the medieval gardens to
mask the smell coming from the castle.
It
would appear that the appeal of the Muslim garden is in the creation of it, as
well as the symbolism. There were many elements that were significant in the
production of the garden that were important for worshiping God. For example,
incorporating a central water source with four ‘rivers’ spreading from it signifies
the four rivers of Eden in the Qur’an.
(http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/61195.jpg)
It appears as if the connection to God in this garden form was not the
reflection so much, but the tribute. It was made in reflection of God’s beauty,
and was also a tribute to the symbolism of religious texts. For more symbolism
on gardens in religious connotations (more Christian relations) please see this
short analysis: http://www.symbolism.org/writing/books/sp/3/page3.html
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