Pronunciation: [mˈe͡əɹi ɡˈɑːdən] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Mary Garden" follows standard English pronunciation rules. "Mary" is spelled with the long "a" sound /eɪ/, represented by the letters "a" and "y" together. "Garden" is spelled with the soft "g" sound /dʒ/ and the vowel sound /ɑː/ represented by the letter "a." Together, the word is pronounced as /ˈmɛri ˈɡɑːrdən/, with the stress on the first syllable of "Mary" and the second syllable of "garden."
A Mary Garden can be defined as a place of devotion dedicated to the Virgin Mary, usually located outdoors and adorned with various flowers and plants symbolizing her virtues or events in her life. Derived from medieval European traditions, Mary Gardens serve as a sacred space for prayer and contemplation. These gardens typically feature an array of flora that hold symbolic significance, such as the rose for the Mystical Rose, lilies for purity, violets for humility, and marigolds for Mary's golden crown. The design and layout of a Mary Garden can vary, but they often incorporate statues or images of the Virgin Mary as a focal point for contemplative meditation.
Mary Gardens not only offer a serene and visually stunning environment, but they also provide an opportunity for spiritual connection and reflection. The act of tending to the garden can become a devotional practice and offer a sense of peace and tranquility. Through the beauty of nature, individuals can experience a deeper connection to their faith and strengthen their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Mary Gardens have been embraced by various Christian denominations, and while they predominantly originated in Europe, they can now be found worldwide. These sacred spaces serve as a reminder of Mary's role as a cherished and revered figure in religious traditions, fostering a sense of reverence, serenity, and holiness.
The term "Mary Garden" originated from the name "Mary", referring to the Virgin Mary in Christian tradition, and "Garden", which simply denotes a plot of cultivated land. The concept of a Mary Garden can be traced back to medieval times when flowers and plants associated with the Virgin Mary were cultivated in a designated area. The flowers and plants in these gardens often held religious symbolism and were chosen for their connection to Mary's life, virtues, or specific events in Christian history. The term "Mary Garden" itself emerged in the early 20th century, popularized by the American garden enthusiast, Frances Crane Lillie, who wrote a book called "The Mary Garden" in 1901, detailing various plants and flowers associated with the Virgin Mary. Since then, the term has been widely used to describe gardens featuring plants dedicated to or associated with Mary.
