The Rothschild Gardens

The Rothschild family have exerted a large impact on European social and political history over nearly two centuries. This illustrated text explores another area where their influence has been significant.

Many members of the family have shared a passion for gardening, creating memorable gardens and landscapes that have become an important part of the heritage of several countries, and inspired the work of many lesser-known gardeners.

Enthusiasts and perfectionists, the Rothchilds have typically gardend with the same determination which characterized the approach of Mayer Amschel Rothschild when he founded the banking empire at the end of the 18th century.

Family members have adopted styles of gardening and design as different as their personalities, ranging from small town gardens to huge parklands. They include beautiful vineyards, sweeping formal vistas and acres of magnificent glasshouses; rambling woodland gardens and Miriam's own memorable wild garden where nature is not tamed but assisted to produce a profusion of wild plants and wildlife. Several Rothschilds have become plant specialists, and botanical gardens worldwide have reason to thank them for their donations of species and collections.

Collectively, the Rothschild gardens illustrate the prevailing attitudes to gardening over the past two centuries. Through their gardens, this book illustrates the history of a great and cultured family, and it shows the impact of historic events on cultural life mirrored in changing garden styles.

Andrew Lawson's photographs bring these gardens to life as Miriam Rothschild recounts their story - the making of the gardens, the characters involved and the world context. The book describes and illustrates the history, development and current status of the principal Rothschild gardens. In the UK, private gardens are illustrated as well as national treasures now owned by the National Trust.

Gardens and parks in France, Switzerland and Israel are included, as well as the famous Rothschild Lafitte vineyards.