Garden of philosophy: a nature-oriented idea of university, a cross-cultural review

This review article explores the significance of gardens as landscapes for contemplation and education across various cultures, including Iran, Greece, Japan, and medieval Europe. Through a cross-cultural and historical analysis of existing literature, it examines examples of the interaction between philosophy and gardens, such as court gardens and cloister garths of madrasas and early universities, where the garden served as an active participant in the educational experience. Additionally, it investigates the influence of gardens on culture, literature, philosophy, and language, revealing how these spaces shaped modes of thought and reflection. The article argues that gardens were not merely physical environments but philosophical spaces rooted in the affinity between humans and nature, places where intellectual and spiritual growth took place. It also highlights their potential contribution to sustainable development goals in education and urban well-being. The study advocates recognising gardens as vital spaces for intellectual and spiritual growth in modern education. This knowledge could help develop landscapes fostering thinking and debate in schools and universities, where communication between students, thinkers, and scholars reflects the enduring legacy of gardens as sources of inspiration and creativity.