The green hearts of cities. The importance of gardens and parks in 21st century urban spaces

The aim of this paper Is to examine the importance of green spaces in the cities of the 21st century. With regard to the accumulating environmental and social problems in the cities with a continuing growth of population, green urban zones are truly becoming the most important places of urban space, the hearts of cities from which life-emanating energy is spreading into other areas. First a short survey of the h I story of park architecture is given and a description of the relationship of different cultures towards the importance of green spaces in creating a particular society's culture. The paper problematises also the most recent issues appearing in the sphere of designing public spaces, which are reflected in the reduction of public spaces and green areas. An attempt has also been made to present the possibilities of creating green spaces in cities and their advantages, which encourages an approach with more awareness towards the design of public and private space, and which would make the future development of our society truly sustainable.