Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico), Padua
Padua, Italy
08.09.2021
The Botanical Garden of Padua - A Fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Botanical Garden of Padua, located in the city of Padua in Italy, is recognized as the oldest existing university botanical garden in the world. It was founded in 1545 by the Venetian Republic and is considered a prime example of Renaissance gardens. The garden has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
The History of the Garden
The Botanical Garden of Padua was created by the Venetian Republic as a center for research and study of medicinal plants. It was designed by botanist and physician, Luca Ghini, who served as its first director. The garden was originally used to cultivate medicinal plants and to teach botany to medical students at the University of Padua. It was also a place for scholars to exchange knowledge and ideas with other scientists from around the world.
Throughout its history, the garden has undergone several transformations and expansions. In the 18th century, a greenhouse was added, which is still in use today. The garden was also enriched with new plant collections from different parts of the world, making it a truly international center for botanical research.
The Garden Today
The Botanical Garden of Padua covers an area of 22,000 square meters and is home to over 6,000 plant species, including rare and endangered species. The garden is divided into different sections, each with its own unique theme and purpose. These include a medicinal plant garden, a systematic garden, and a garden dedicated to aquatic plants.
The garden also houses a museum, which displays various botanical collections and artifacts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the garden. It also serves as a research center for scholars and scientists, making it a vital institution for the study of botany.
Visit the Botanical Garden of Padua
The Botanical Garden of Padua is open to the public and offers guided tours, educational programs, and workshops for visitors of all ages. It is not only a beautiful and tranquil place to visit, but also a valuable resource for learning about the natural world.
Whether you are a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, the Botanical Garden of Padua is a must-see attraction in Italy.
Weiterführende Links
The world's first botanical garden was created in Padua in 1545. It still preserves its original layout – a circular central plot, symbolizing the world, surrounded by a ring of water. Other elements were added later, some architectural (ornamental entrances and balustrades) and some practical (pumping installations and greenhouses). It continues to serve its original purpose as a centre for scientific research.
The Orto Botanico di Padova is a botanical garden in Padua, in the northeastern part of Italy. Founded in June 1545 by the Venetian Republic, it is the world's oldest academic botanical garden that is still in its original location. The garden – operated by the University of Padua and owned by the Italian government – encompasses roughly 22,000 square meters (240,000 sq ft), and is known for its special collections and historical design.
