Preheat oven to 200ยบ celsius.
Prepare artichokes by first removing the small lower leaves at the base of the stem. Then peel the stems using a vegetable peeler to remove the course outer skin of the stem. Cut the artichokes in half (cross-section) and cut out the furry 'choke' part.
Combine butter, parsley, garlic and lemon in a small bowl.
Brush all sides of the artichokes with the butter marinade, reserving a small amount of the marinade.
Place the artichokes in a baking dish, cut side facing up.
Cook in the oven for 10 minutes.
Remove from oven, brush with remaining marinade and flip artichokes so the cut side is now facing down.
Add water to oven dish and cover dish with foil.
Cook for a further 40 minutes in the oven. When ready, artichokes should be tender and leaves fall off easily.