Enlightening Significance of Landscape Architecture in Russia: Sacred Symbolism and Educational Environment

Abstract

The main milestones in the evolution of relationship between man and nature are reflected in social functions of landscape architecture through different periods of its historical development. It is largely associated with gardens and parks educational activity, which harmonious combination of ancient sacred and modern educational symbolism distinguishes them from other architectural forms. The present study discusses the historical development of Russian landscape architecture, considered in the context of the relationship of sacred and educational functions. The authors examine formation process of the educational role of Russian landscape architecture from the Ancient World to modern times: at the stages of its implementation through the ancient Slavs sacred buildings, monastic and apothecary gardens creation, the development of a system of botanical gardens and ecological parks. The analysis of the evolution of these relations allows us to conclude that the sacred and educational functions of Russian landscape art, having begun earlier than others, are not only developing to the present days, but also having a close relationship precisely in the discourse of the enlightenment at all stages.