Nestled in the heart of Oxford lies a hidden gem that seamlessly blends horticultural beauty with scientific history - the Rose Garden at Magdalen College, also known as the Lasker Rose Garden. This Grade I Registered Park and Garden, as recognized by Historic England, is not just a feast for the eyes but a living monument to one of the most significant medical breakthroughs of the 20th century.
A Rose Garden with Deep Roots
Magdalen College's gardens, dating back to the 16th century, have long been a part of Oxford's rich tapestry. However, it was in 1953 that this particular rose garden blossomed into existence, designed by Sylvia Crowe to commemorate the development of penicillin as an antibiotic in Oxford during the 1940s.
The Garden's Noble Purpose
This garden stands as a testament to Oxford's monumental contribution to medicine. While Alexander Fleming had already discovered penicillin, it was the Oxford team, led by Howard Walter Florey, that developed it into a viable antibiotic, isolating the active ingredient. This research, stimulated by wartime necessity, would go on to save countless lives.
The American Connection
The garden's creation was made possible by the American Lasker Foundation. Mary Lasker, a champion of medical research, and her husband Albert, were known for their effective philanthropy and support of important causes. Their stipulation for a rose garden led to this beautiful and meaningful space.
Design and Layout
Sylvia Crowe's design for the garden echoes the layout of botanic gardens through the centuries. The formal framework features rectangular rose beds surrounded by low, clipped box hedges, all enclosed by yew hedges. At the west end, stone seats under a row of pleached copper beech trees offer a serene spot for contemplation.
A Rose Garden of Remembrance
Two stones within the garden add to its historical significance. One is dedicated to the historic Jewish burial ground that once occupied this space. The other, a poignant reminder of the garden's purpose, bears an inscription honoring the Oxford researchers who discovered penicillin's clinical importance. It lists the names of these pioneering scientists and acknowledges the debt all mankind owes to their work in saving lives, relieving suffering, and inspiring further research.
A Rich Archaeological Site
Beyond its visible beauty, the garden holds potential archaeological interest. The site may contain remnants of Late Saxon and Viking burials, 13th-century Jewish burials, and medieval extra-mural settlement. It also potentially harbors post-medieval garden archaeology associated with the Botanic Garden.
Visitor Information
Located in the center of Oxford, this garden is a must-visit for both history enthusiasts and garden lovers. It's situated near the entrance to the Botanic Gardens and can be accessed from Rose Lane or the main road. Unlike the adjacent Oxford Botanic Garden, which requires a ticket, the Rose Garden is accessible free of charge.
So, on your next visit to this wonderful historic town, why not take a moment to stop by this extraordinary garden? Admire the roses, soak in the views, and reflect on the groundbreaking medical research that this beautiful space commemorates. The Lasker Rose Garden at Magdalen College is more than just a garden - it's a living tribute to human ingenuity and the power of scientific discovery.
