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Step back in time to the cloistered courtyards of the Middle Ages.
From the fall of the Roman empire through to the 16th century, a distinctive form of medieval garden was the monastic, cloistered courtyard.
The structure of the courts in this example are based on the ruins of St John of the Hermits Monastery in Sicily. One court is a simple Cloister Garth, which was a form of courtyard generally used by the monks for prayer and contemplation. The other is an Apothecary’s Garden, which supported the healing of the sick in a monastic hospital.
The Medieval Garden opens in mid-2026.
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Behind the scenes of the Medieval Garden construction
The bell tower now stands proudly in the Medieval Garden, adding a striking new feature to this immersive garden. While the bell remains silent for now, its presence hints at the rhythm and ritual of medieval life, inviting you to imagine the sounds that once marked the passing of time.
We extend our sincere thanks to Tuscany Statues for their exceptional craftsmanship. Their artistry adds depth and authenticity to this evolving space.
With roof tiles imported from Spain laid in place and cladding added to the walls, the Medieval Garden is really starting to take shape.
Planting begins
With fresh topsoil settled, the next chapter of planting has begun. Each of the four apothecary beds now home a central apple tree Malus ‘Wrights Scarlet’, a beautiful variety that delights with white spring blossoms, crimson fruit, and golden autumn leaves.
Around these trees, a collection of herbs and medicinal plants has been carefully planted. Apple mint, lungwort, feverfew, achillea, geranium, and comfrey now share the beds with Sicilian natives such as rosemary, oregano, fennel, thyme, and marjoram.
Nearby, a striking Cryptomeria japonica has been transplanted from within the Gardens, with turf to be laid in the new year.
In total, this space will showcase more than 40 medicinal species, sourced from Kahikatea Nursery and nurtured in our on-site nursery. Each plant has been selected through extensive research to reflect the story of medieval healing and herbal wisdom.
