Tree of Life

A fountain designed by Czech sculptor Otmar Oliva has been standing in the newly created paradise courtyard in front of the entrance to the tomb since 1997. This artist is well known for the painting of the chapel Redemptoris Mater of Pope John Paul II.

The fountain represents a well-watered tree, "whose leaves will not wilt, which will not cease to procreate", as stated in verse 12 of chapter 47 of the prophet Ezekiel (the Old Testament). The role of the fountain is to refresh the visitors as it is stated on its metal obelisk:

Et fructus eius erunt in cibum, et eius ad Medicinæ folios. (And its fruits were for food, and its leaf for medicine).