Hidden along a steep hillside below Belvedere Castle lies the enchanting Shakespeare Garden in Central Park, located on the West Side at 79th Street. Evoking an English cottage garden, this four-acre space is a dense tapestry of trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare. Bronze plaques adorned with Shakespearean quotes referencing plants are scattered throughout the garden, adding to its charm and educational value.
Originally established in 1912 as "The Garden of the Heart" by Dr. Edmond Bronk Southwick, an entomologist, the garden was later dedicated to Shakespeare in 1916. Visitors can discover a curved granite bench honoring Charles Stover, a key figure in the creation of the garden. Despite facing challenges and periods of decline, the Central Park Conservancy led a significant restoration in 1987, revitalizing the garden with new plantings, rustic benches, and fences.
Adjacent to the Delacorte Theater, where Shakespeare in the Park productions are staged, Shakespeare Garden offers a serene escape. Its rich history, intricate plantings, and ties to Shakespeare make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, literature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat within the bustling city.
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