Prince Leopold III of Anhalt-Dessau, an enlightened ruler, was very fond of English landscaped gardens which he felt were the perfect illustration of the philosophy of the Age of Enlightenment - the unity of nature and reason. He decided to create his own English-style gardens with the help of his friend Friedrich Wilhelm von Erdmannsdorff. Work began in 1764. Spread over some 270 acres, Wörlitz park is perfect to stroll leisurely down paths or take a spin on one of the boats on the canal.