Meridian Hill Park was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994, as "an outstanding accomplishment of early 20th-century Neoclassicist park design in the United States." It is a 12 acre site situated on an almost perfect north-south axis. It is located in northwest D.C. and bordered by 16th, 15th, Euclid and W Streets.
The Interior Department in 1914 hired landscape architect George Burnap to design a grand urban park like those found in European capitals. Plans were later modified by Horace Peaslee to include gardens in a French Baroque style in the upper half and an Italian Renaissance style terraced fountain in the lower. The fountains and walls were built in a concrete aggregate mixed with small pebbles.
In 1969 DC residents voted overwhelmingly for the park to be named Malcolm X Park. However, the U.S. House of Representatives rejected the vote. Although the bill failed, some locals refer to it by the proposed name.
Since the death of Malcolm X each Sunday a large drum circle, with a strong African vibe, takes place in the field above the fountain. It can often be heard a couple blocks away. Along with those enjoying the music there is always a couple soccer games going on and local families picnicing. I don't consider the park safe at night as there are too many places that are hidden from view.
Inscription: Dante Alighieri - Presented to the city of Washington in behalf of the Italians in the United States by Comm Carlo Barsotti (An Italian-American newspaper publisher). 
