Feature: New attraction allows visitors to walk in footsteps of William Shakespeare

by Larry Neild

LONDON, Aug. 21 (Xinhua) -- The biggest project in the world to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare has opened in the place where the famous playwright lived and died.

Shakespeare's New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon has been created on the actual site where Britain's most famous storyteller spent the last 19 years of his life.

The 8 million U.S. dollar project has transformed a World Heritage Site on the spot where Shakespeare's house stood until it was demolished in 1759.

When Shakespeare bought New Place in 1597 it was the biggest house in Stratford, the town that would become a world mecca for fans of the famous Bard.

Dr Diana Owen, chief executive of Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: "We're delighted to be re-opening the most important, permanent Shakespeare anniversary project anywhere in the world. Visitors can walk in his footsteps and experience a wonderful new imaginative garden on the site."

Shakespeare's New Place opened Saturday, when its splendid new oak and bronze gateway greeted its first fans of the playwright.

As well as allowing visitors to walk in Shakespeare's footsteps, it enables people to explore a dramatic new landscape and exhibition, and meet the man behind the famous works, according to the trust.

"This is the place where Shakespeare had his family home for 19 years, and where he died four hundred years ago. Now the trust has transformed this internationally significant heritage site into a window on the world of William Shakespeare for the 21st century, " said a trust spokeswoman.

CEO Owen added:" The re-opening of Shakespeare's New Place means we can now tell the complete story of Shakespeare's life from boyhood to father, husband, businessman and playwright and of his enduring ability to inspire artists today. New Place is a stunning and innovative addition to the precious landscape of our beautiful historic town."

Shakespeare was just 32 when he bought New Place in 1597, and it remained his family home until his death there in 1616. As the largest house in the borough, a prestigious residence with 10 fireplaces, up to 20 rooms, and extensive gardens.

Today's visitors can trace the footprint of Shakespeare's lost house, discovered during an archaeological excavation of the site, outlined in engraved bronze inlaid in the spectacular stone paving.

A swathe of golden plants in a bronze-clad raised border link the three zones of Shakespeare's mansion and enfold his original well which supplied water for the mansion.

Around the new garden specially commissioned sculptures conjure up the world that influenced Shakespeare, and his enduring influence in the world today.

A dynamic new permanent exhibition brings to life the story of Shakespeare's New Place and the personal life of its most famous occupant and his family - casting new light on Shakespeare as a father, husband, citizen of Stratford-upon-Avon - as well as the famous playwright.