Monuments and Garden Designs

The Cultural Gardens feature symbolic design plans and symbolic sculpture to reflect the spirit of the cultures and countries they represent.

The African American Cultural Garden

The Past Pavilion in the African American Garden, a reinterpretation of corridors that were part of the "door of no return" in the slave trade in western Africa. The Garden's design depicts the past, present and future of the African American community, as well as its spirit.

A Celtic heritage

The Irish Cultural Garden was designed in the shape of a Celtic Cross and features a "Writer's Court" to honor famous Irish authors and poets.

Estonian Cultural Garden (1966) by Herk VisnapuuCleveland Cultural Gardens

The Estonian spirit

The Estonian Cultural Garden has a flame representing the desire for freedom that burned in the hearts of Estonians under occupation. The boat-shaped planter recalls Estonians' connection to the Baltic sea.

Hearth by Ohio Outdoor SculptureCleveland Cultural Gardens

Hearth

This stainless-steel sculpture in the Azerbaijani Garden by Khanlar Gasimov reflects the earth and sky in its exterior and interior curves. Inspired by Azerbaijani poets and philosophers, its form represents both limits and openness. 

Lithuanian's tribute to its heritage and folk music

The Lithuanian Cultural Garden upper level is designed in the shape of a lyre. Its three levels represent historic eras in the country's history.

Latvian Garden (2006) by Kalvis Kampe, Al Parker and Girts BurvisCleveland Cultural Gardens

Passages

This arch in the Latvian Garden, dedicated in 2006, has a more contemporary design. The portal features a silhouette of a woman in traditional folk dress, and represents the passage from Latvia to the United States, as well as the strength and spirit of the Latvian people.

The Monumental Arch of Palmyra

This replica of the ancient Monumental Arch in the city of Palmyra stands as a central feature of the Syrian Garden. The original arch was built in the third century and later became one of Syria's most famous tourist attractions. 

The Fountain of Wisdom

This pink marble fountain adorns the Hebrew Cultural Garden, dedicated in 1926. The upper rim of the fountain is engraved with a quote from the Book of Wisdom, roughly translated, "Wisdom has built a house out of seven pillars," which could refer to the seven days of creation.

Croatian Baptismal FontCleveland Cultural Gardens

Croatian History

This is a replica of the Baptismal font of Prince Viseslay and represents Croatia's conversion to Christianity in the 7th century. 

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