The Islamic garden style has its origins in oases: life-sustaining places of refreshment and greenery in vast deserts. Water is the essential element in all Islamic gardens; it is literally the source of all life in the desert.
These gardens are designed according to a particular pattern, known as chahar bagh. A rectangular courtyard is surrounded by walls and divided into four quadrants, symbolising the four gardens of paradise, as mentioned in the Quran. The quadrants are separated by running water.
Water is one of the most important elements of the Islamic garden. The Quran refers to the four rivers flowing in paradise: the rivers of water, milk, honey and wine. At the central place where the streams meet, there is a water reservoir with a fountain, mausoleum or pavilion. The water reflects the building structures in the garden and symbolises purity.
An essential decorative element in Islamic gardens are mosaic tiles.
Islamic gardens have an orderly planting plan. Plants commonly used are date palms, pomegranate, citrus, fig, cherry and apricot trees, almonds, hibiscus, jasmine, roses, daffodils, violets, lilies, hyacinths, irises and lotus. Several of these plants have pleasant fragrances, which are considered to nourish the mind.
