The Garden at Saint Lukes

This small, exquisite sanctuary in the West Village is virtually unbeknownst to outsiders. In fact, in doing this post, I found almost no information online - the official site for the church does not describe it, nor does the wikipedia article. It was difficult to chose a photo, so please click here to see the entire series. Officially known as The Garden of the Church of St.-Lukes-in-the-Fields, the two acres of garden grounds surround the church, which was built in 1821, and are open to the public. Barbara Leighton created the Barrow Street Garden (the core of the garden complex) in 1950. It was expanded from 1985 to 1993. Because of its naturally protected setting and orientation, the garden area has become a microclimate with plants (flowers and fruit) rarely seen this far north. It also lies on the migation route of birds and butterflies. The Episcopalian church itself is actually quite unique and progressive, with a choir comprised of an impressive roster of professional singers. Behind the gate lies a real special oasis in the big apple ...