MŪŽĪGO MEŽA, or the Forest of the Eternals, is located in Mezaparks, Latvia, within the Meza Kapi forest cemetery. The design aims to connect the urban environment of one of the earliest garden cities with the tranquil setting of the cemetery. The concept centers around an axial path that encourages moments of reflection and remembrance, integrating nature and cultural symbolism.

Pathway and Nojumes

The design includes a north-south axial path paved with cobblestones inspired by the Lielvarde belts found in Latvian folk costumes. This path functions as a visual and conceptual link between the historic city and the sacred space of the cemetery. Visitors encounter four Nojumes, or canopies, along the path. These structures provide seating and lighting, offering spaces for pause and contemplation.



Seating Design

Seating along the axial path consists of monolithic precast concrete blocks. These blocks feature etched patterns influenced by the shadows of the surrounding trees. This approach enhances the functional design by creating a connection to the natural environment. Such details help provide a reflective experience for visitors.



Natural Integration

Mūžīgo Meža emphasizes its relationship with nature throughout the design. The axial path reflects the changes of the seasons, aligning with the themes of life, death, and renewal. In spring, colorful foliage fills the area, which transforms into a green canopy in summer. Autumn introduces warm hues that eventually lead to the bare branches of winter. Adding wildflowers, like Siberian squill and wild heather, contributes texture and interest to the landscape as seasons change.



Monolithic Columns

A distinctive feature of Mūžīgo Meža is its arrangement of monolithic columns spread throughout the site. These columns are designed with niches for holding ashes, creating a meaningful interaction with the landscape. Each column consists of a precast concrete trunk topped with a blued steel laser-cut canopy. The canopies include glass fragments that facilitate light and shadow play. This layering enriches the visual experience and allows for a changing atmosphere as natural light shifts.

The design creates a setting where visitors can engage with the memorial space, having opportunities to place urns within the niches and arrange candles and flowers. This process fosters a personal connection to memory and environment, encouraging deeper reflection.