The Cosmic Tree: A Universal Symbol of Life: Ginkgoes and Conifers

Cosmologies are ways of understanding the nature of the universe, of experiencing the world in all its variations including the visible and the invisible. Over millennia trees have served as the mythological archetype of the world’s axis (axis mundi), the pole through the earth’s center which connects the worlds above and below. Within a cosmic-magical model of the world (imago mundi), trees also evolved in various cultures to possess innate spiritual powers or as conduits for communication with the holy or sacred.

Docent Katrina Scott will lead this interactive tour with stops for moments to reflect on specific trees and the stories associated with them. Were they revered or feared?  A home for deities or tricksters?  We will begin at the Walter Street Gate to visit the oldest ginkgoes at the Arboretum, then head up the Conifer Path and diverge to walk, rest, and reflect among various conifers, eventually ending by the yews near Bussey Brook and Hemlock Hill Road.  Please wear long pants and closed toe shoes and bring a cloth/towel/mat for sitting/lying down.

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Location

Walter Street Gate

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Directions

By subway

Take the MBTA Orange Line to its southern end—Forest Hills. Exit through the door marked “Arnold Arboretum,” cross Washington Street, and take a left and walk half a block up Washington Street. Enter the Washington Street Gate on your right and walk along Blackwell Footpath. Cross the road and enter South Street Gate. Walk along Rhododendron Path and take a left onto Hemlock Hill Road. Take a right just before Bussey Street Gate, and proceed several minutes to Walter Street Gate.

By bus

Take the #35 or #38 bus to Centre Street opposite Walter Street. Cross Centre Street onto Walter Street, walk a short distance and enter at Walter Street Gate on the left.

By car

There is public parking available along Flora Way (formerly Bussey Street). Take care not to park on the sidewalk or you will risk a ticket.

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