TORONTO – Toronto has a new addition to its cultural landscape.
The new Aga Khan Park, on Wynford Drive near Don Mills Road, was inaugurated Monday in the presence of Premier Kathleen Wynne and His Highness The Aga Khan.
The 6.8 hecatare urban park is the newest part of a complex that also hosts The Aga Khan Museum and The Ismaili Centre. Both of those buildings were opened to much fanfare eight months ago. Together they complete a project that broke ground five years ago on the site of the former Bata Shoe headquarters.
“We learned a great deal from this experience,” said His Highness. “We learned that patience is rewarded. We learned that the unexpected can often become a blessing. We learned, once again, that civil society is cemented when people of many backgrounds come together in places of peace and joy, of inspiration and contemplation, of interaction and common purpose.”
Designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic, the Park aims to recreate the experience elicited by traditional Islamic gardens, like the one in Alhambra, Spain and the famed “Humayun’s Tomb” in Delhi, India.
“But the Park brings its own unique style and its own atmosphere to this unique part of the city,” said Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. “This is a true 21st Century space. One that’s steeped in history, but that speaks to our modern vision of a global inclusive and peaceful society.”
“I hope that this park will contribute to strengthening Toronto’s already vibrant pluralism, showcasing to the world Canada’s rich example of pluralism in action,” said His Highness.
Prior to Monday’s inauguration, the Aga Khan and Premier Wynne signed an agreement of co-operation between Ontario and the Ismaili Immat that encompasses areas including education, economic development, culture and diversity.
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