The concept of the paradise garden dates back thousands of years, with historical examples found in Persian, Mughal and Andalusian designs. These gardens were intended as places of peace and reflection, sanctuaries with flowing water and rich in flora. In contrast to naturalistic gardens that are popular today, paradise gardens are deliberate, with planned pathways, viewpoints and contemplative zones intended to create harmony within a confined space.
Perhaps one of the most well-known and iconic examples of a paradise garden is found at the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. I made the pilgrimage to Andalucia several years ago, to visit the ancient fortress for myself. Walking through the gardens on a hot August day, hearing the trickle of fountains and breathing in the scent of citrus was not only beautiful but also meditative.
