The Islamic Garden: Geometry, Paradise and the Chahar Bagh

“ The real gardens and flowers are within, they are in man’s heart not outside ” -Rumi

This workshop offers an introduction to the guiding principles of traditional Islamic garden design, exploring how the Islamic vision of paradise is expressed through geometry, order, balance and beauty.

We will look at the historical significance of the Islamic garden, its symbolic and spiritual meanings, and its continuing relevance today as a model of harmony between human beings, nature and the sacred.

Participants will then have the opportunity to engage directly with these principles by using a traditional compass and straightedge to draw their own fourfold Chahar Bagh garden design.

This workshop is suitable for anyone interested in Islamic art, sacred geometry, garden design, architecture, or the deeper meanings embedded in traditional forms.

Refreshments will be provided during the break. Following the workshop, participants have the option to join a 45 minute silent Sufi meditation.

. ....................

The Schedule:

15:30 Arrival

15:45 Start of workshop: Introduction to Islamic Gardens

17:10 Asr prayer & short break

17:30 -18:15 Practical workshop: Hand drawn geometry of chahar bagh

18:30 optional meditation

19:30 Close

. ....................

About the Facilitator:

Saba Kafil finished her architectural studies in Baghdad, Iraq, where she was inspired by a rich and diverse architectural culture. She completed further studies in geometry and has recently been focusing on the philosophical aspects of space, the built environment and symbolic language. Saba is a keen gardener, approaches gardening as a sacred art and is inspired by traditional Islamic gardens.

. ....................

Tickets cost £22. If the cost is prohibitive please email [email protected]

. ....................

Please note: There is no wheelchair access to the workshop space. Participants will be asked to remove shoes on entering. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher The School of Sufi Teaching