Today it is one of the most visited and widely used parks in the city by residents, nearby office workers and tourists.
The gardens are 7.2 hectares (18 acres) of Crown Land bounded by William, La Trobe, King and Dudley streets, managed by the City of Melbourne.
The former Royal Mint building is a well-preserved example of Victorian Gold Rush boom-period classical styled architecture.
The park contains extensive lawns with a variety of mature trees, flowerbeds and wild animals including possums.
But it also means the whole site is recognised as an important place for gaining an insight into our historical, archaeological, aesthetic, horticultural and social heritage."