By Introduction
The Novartis Physic Garden serves as a sanctuary for celebrating the sensory experiences offered by nature. It provides a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the mystic scents, vibrant colors, and seasonal diversity of plants while also serving as a platform for pharmacological research. Inspired by ancient monastery gardens where monks delved into the pharmaceutical properties of plants, this garden pays homage to the legacy of botanical knowledge that continues to inform modern research endeavors.
Garden Design
Located within the Novartis Campus, the Physic Garden is designed as a hidden sanctuary, reminiscent of a theatrical stage or a labyrinth, with layers of spatial complexity waiting to be discovered. Visitors navigate through a series of zig-zag pathways flanked by towering hedges of yew and beech, gradually unveiling the garden’s secrets. This spatial arrangement mirrors the secluded nature of medieval monastery gardens, inviting exploration and contemplation.
Centerpiece
At the heart of the garden lies a sunken planting bed adorned with 31 species of pharmaceutical plants arranged in a striped pattern. Enclosed within a low granite wall, this basin creates a sense of preciousness around the fragile specimens, elevating them to objects of reverence. Visitors can admire the colorful array of plants from above, akin to viewing a vibrant painting or a textured carpet. Light bridges traverse the sunken bed, offering brave souls an up-close encounter with the plants, each meticulously labeled with engraved bronze plaques.
Ethnopharmacological Tribute
Bordering the sunken bed are four “log racks,” resembling stacks of logs arranged like a library collection. These structures pay homage to tree species from which medicinal substances have been extracted for ethnopharmacological use. Together, these elements showcase a diverse selection of 70 plant species, inviting visitors to explore the rich tapestry of nature’s pharmacopeia.
Conclusion
The Novartis Physic Garden stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between humanity and the natural world, offering a space for reflection, discovery, and scientific inquiry. Rooted in tradition yet embracing modernity, this garden serves as a beacon of inspiration for botanical enthusiasts, researchers, and visitors alike, perpetuating the legacy of botanical knowledge for generations to come.
