Discover the Magic and Meaning of Bermuda’s Moongates
Wander through Somers Garden in St. George’s, the Botanical Gardens in Paget, or Palm Grove Gardens in Devonshire, and you will see them: perfect circles of weathered limestone cutting beautifully through the greenery.
In fact there are more than 40 of these beautiful archways around the island but have you ever wondered how they came about – and what they represent today?
While these iconic arches were built by local craftsmen, the concept arrived on our shores in 1860, introduced by a shipping captain inspired by the architecture of imperial China.
In its birthplace, the Moongate was rooted in Taoist philosophy, serving as a spiritual transition point. Built intentionally narrow, it was meant for just one person at a time – a deliberate pause to leave the outside world behind and enter a sacred space of peace and solitary contemplation.
But when the concept reached Bermuda, we gave it a warm, local twist. We built them wide enough for two. It became a timeless tradition for a newly married couple to step inside the circle, hold hands, and share a kiss to guarantee a blissful life together.
Beyond the romance, however, the Moongate is a masterpiece of balance. Every single limestone block must be angled perfectly by hand, but it is the Keystone at the very top that requires absolute precision. A temporary wooden frame holds the side stones in place until this central wedge is dropped into the middle.
See this location come to life: https://youtube.com/shorts/IvYcCWVc654
Learn more about touring Bermuda: Best Bermuda Shore Excursions – Bermuda Heritage Tours