Circle of Life Commemorative Garden

Circle of Life Commemorative Garden

National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden 🍃

he National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden is located adjacent to the Promenade in Salthill overlooking Galway Bay. The title of the garden, “Circle of Life”, takes its name from its centrepiece which consists of five 2 metre tall standing stones positioned in a circle and each with a carving and inscription symbolising the connectivity and interdependence of man at the different stages of his journey through life.

The garden’s heart is encircled by five towering stones, each standing at 2 meters tall, adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. These stones serve as symbolic markers of the various stages of life’s journey, embodying the unity and dependence that weave through them.

An Oasis of Calm and Reflection 🌿

More than just a physical space, the garden invites all to experience its inclusive charm. Among its many remarkable features, the Global Heritage Stones trail is a standout, showcasing stones from each of the five continents. These stones carry the universal message of organ donation’s life-giving cause, while simultaneously fostering a sense of global togetherness.

As part of the Quincentennial Park, the garden also boasts a wildflower sanctuary, an ornamental pond graced by a majestic bird sculpture, a mesmerizing waterfall, and a picturesque footbridge. This meticulously crafted oasis offers an ideal backdrop for cherished wedding photographs and a haven for contemplation and solace.

Circle of Life Garden Highlights

Time capsule 📅

Originally opened in 1984 as a tribute to Galway’s rich history, the “Circle of Life” Garden was funded by the Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), a computer manufacturing giant. Its legacy persists as a tribute to the elderly citizens of the city. A commemorative stone overlooks a time capsule, a window to the past that won’t be opened until the year 2484.

These, and the garden’s many other stone features, sculpture and inscriptions, are designed to create an inclusive place of beauty, inspiration which is welcome to all. The garden is a wonderful space to relax and reflect during your visit to Galway.

Circle of Life Garden Map

Circle of Life Garden FAQs

Where is the Circle of Life Garden in Galway?
Situated in the exquisitely maintained Quincentennial Park opposite The Promenade in Salthill, overlooking Galway Bay, the Circle of Life Garden is a particularly wonderful spot to take some time out to remember and reflect on loved ones lost.

When will the time capsule be opened?
It is planned for the time capsule to be opened 500 years after it was buried in 2484.

Who created the Circle of Life Commemorative Garden?
The Galway-based charity Strange Boat Donor Foundation built the Circle of Life Garden with the help of Galway City Council, who provided the initiative with the space in Quincentennial Park. It became formally operational in May 2014 and is currently one of Galway’s top tourist destinations.

Best Rate Hotels

Powered by Booking.com
We Price Match
No Booking Fees
FREE cancellation on most rooms!

loading