Parks are large outdoor recreation areas. The earliest parks were created for the amusement of Middle Eastern kings and their courts. Such royal parks often contained enclosed hunting grounds and were shaped by riding paths and shelters. Parks often served a more social function in more democratic societies, such as the city states of Ancient Greece. Parks were used by citizens to socialize, conduct athlete’s training, and perform religious rituals. Parks in ancient Greece often contained beautiful sculptures of gods and goddesses.
In Medieval Europe, private parks were often built next to castles and contained ponds, manicured lawns, and mazes of trimmed bushes. Parks during post-Renaissance times were built under the patronage of royalty and political figures. These parks were often part of elaborate palatial complexes and include Versailles in France, Schnbrunn Palace in Vienna, and El Escorial in Spain.
Such royal parks contained extensive woods, raised galleries, priceless sculptures, and fountains. They also had aviaries and cages that contained wild animals. Opulent private parks were often the playgrounds of European queens and empresses. Examples of such parks include the fabled Petit Trianon built for Marie Antoinette, as well as Malmaison which was constructed in the reign of Empress Josephine.
Modern parks are an integral part of urban development and service an entire community rather than a privileged elite. Present day parks may contain extensive woods, flora and fauna, ponds and fountains, as well as various recreation areas such as outdoor theaters, zoos, concert shells, concession areas for dining and picnics, sports grounds and stadiums, jogging and walking paths, and open areas for summer events in denver.
