Melbourne is a very practical city, with its streets laid out in a grid pattern. Within the CBD are numerous parks & green spaces.
The Fitzroy Gardens is one of these green spaces & was designed during the Victorian era. The Gardens lie on the southeast side of the CBD & were named after Sir Charles Augustus Fitzroy (1796-1858), the Governor of NSW & Governor-General of the Australian colonies. The Fitzroy Gardens encompass a whole city block of 64 hectares & is bounded by Clarendon St, Albert St, Lansdowne St & Wellington Pde. Within the Gardens, you can find an ornamental lake, conservatory, a modern Tudor village, fountains & sculptures, a band pavilion & Cook's cottage. The most notable feature of the Gardens is the tree-lined paths.
Cook's Cottage is located within the grounds of Fitzroy Gardens. It was originally constructed in the English village of Great Ayton in North Hampshire by the parents of James Cook & was home to James, before he set off to discover Australia. It is believed to have been completed in 1755, this year being carved into the stone above one of the doorways, along with the initials of James Cook Snr & his wife, Grace. Sir Russell Grimwade purchased the cottage when it became available for sale. It was transported & reconstructed in its present location to celebrate Melbourne's centenary of European settlement, in 1934.
The Fitzroy Gardens are on the Victorian Heritage Register as being of historical, aesthetic, architectural, scientific (horticultural) & social significance to the state of Victoria. They were established in the 19th century on the principle of providing respite & relaxation to the city's residents. And I think this principle still applies today. They are beautiful, peaceful & shaded. Perfect for the upcoming summer weather.
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