A total of 783 bird species have been recorded in Guyana, the country is known for its flora and fauna – the rainforest consists of 750 species of trees and 1500 species of flowering plants. This is an attraction to many nature lovers. The Promenade Gardens is one of the serene places in Guyana where you can enjoy the beauty of nature; you’ll hear birds chirping, wings flapping, beaks pecking; you’ll be surrounded by trees and colorful plants.
The smell of fresh greenery along with the beauty of the variety of flowers is a scene that many visualize; it comes to life when you explore the Promenade Gardens. From long ago up until now the power of plants and flowers inspires the imagination of artisans, artists and poets. As for the butterflies, a total of 1,205 species have been recorded in Guyana and some are seen flying beautifully in and around the Promenade Gardens. All of this contributes to the beauty of the Promenade and thus uplifts the spirit of visitors.
How did the Promenade Gardens come about?
In 1823, slaves were convicted of being involved in the East Coast Rebellion and were hanged. In honor of those victims, members of the public suggest that the area be made into a public garden. As a result, the beautiful Promenade Gardens was formed. In 1851, after obtaining funds, steps were put in place to turn a field that was used for military parades and training into a beautiful garden. It was completed in 1853 and in 1859 seats were made for the public.
Location: The Promenade Gardens is located on a portion of what was once a field known as Parade Ground. It occupies one city block in North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. The main entrance is located on Middle street.
Opening Hours: The Promenade opens at 7:00am and closes at 5:30pm.
The Beauty of the Promenade Gardens
Along with the variety of flowers, the Promenade Gardens also has several fountains as well as an arched walkway. In the past, if you wanted a certain type of flowering plant, you could have visited the Promenade Gardens, get a sample of it, take it back to your home and plant it in your own garden. There is a wide variety of colorful flowers and shades of leaves; some grow on the green grass while others are arranged in pots. The walkways are organized and laid out by whitewashed bricks; benches can be found along some walkways.
Birds and insects found in the Promenade Gardens: kiskadee, pigeon, hummingbird, woodpecker, monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), moths, grasshoppers, etc.
Flowers and plants found in the Promenade Gardens: buttercup, hibiscus, the canon ball tree (Couroupta guianensis), etc.
Fact:
Also found in the Promenade Gardens is a pond covered with beautiful white lilies along with its iconic green round leaves. Guyana’s national flower is called the Victoria Regia Lily (Victoria amazonica) – it is also known as the Giant Water Lily and is the largest of the Nymphaeaceae family of water lilies in the world.
Tip: There is a tree in the Promenade Gardens that is at least a 100-year-old; one of the oldest trees in the city.
The scenery in the Promenade Gardens is captivating and makes an ideal setting for a photoshoot or even hosting an elegant outdoor wedding with a touch of nature. In 2017, an Event Planner at ‘Jonas Bridal House and Events Planning Services’ had the privilege of holding a wedding for a couple at the Promenade.
Rules of the gardens:
- Payment is needed for any weddings/events kept at the Promenade.
- Permission is needed to use the Bandstand for any events.
- No littering.
- No destruction of property.
Did You Know?
The Promenade Gardens is filled with historical and monumental sights such as the Bandstand and the monument of Mahatma Gandhi. Both are reminiscent of great memories to the people of Guyana.
The Promenade Gardens
It is said that a garden is like a safe haven, enjoyed by many and sought out by the peace-seekers. The Promenade Gardens provides a place to throwback and relax after a long hard day. Individuals and families alike will no doubt enjoy the peaceful surroundings which makes for a great picnic spot. Kids along with their friends will find the natural environment fun to run around and will definitely learn a few things about nature. Whether it’s getting to know each other or rekindling their love, many dating and even married couples can be seen in the gardens on a daily basis, enjoying the private, pleasant atmosphere.
The variety of flora and fauna within the Promenade Gardens is eye-catching. The trees stand perfectly on the green grass and provides a home for the various species of birds and insects. The colorful flowers and shades of leaves are endless and neatly groomed. Not forgetting the historical and monumental sights that are deeply cherished and remembered by the people of Guyana. The Promenade Gardens is a beautiful place to sit, relax, read a book and enjoy the countless attractive flora and fauna.
Picture Gallery
Article References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_amazonica
- https://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/features/06/19/giant-water-lily/
- http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Americas/Guyana-FLORA-AND-FAUNA.html
- https://guyanachronicle.com/plant-diversity/
- https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/03/mahatma-gandhi-remembered-on-his-148th-birth-anniversary/