Padua Botanical Garden, Padua, Italy

The Orto Botanico di Padova is a botanical garden in Padua, founded in 1545 by the Venetian Republic. It is the world's oldest academic botanical garden that is still in its original location. The garden, affiliated with the University of Padua, currently covers roughly 22,000 square meters, and is known for its special collections and historical design.

A circular wall enclosure was built to protect the garden from the frequent night thefts which occurred in spite of severe penalties (fines, prison, exile). The Botanical Garden was steadily enriched with plants from all over the world, particularly from the countries that participated in trade with Venice. Consequently, Padua had a leading role in the introduction and study of many exotic plants, and a herbarium, a library and many laboratories were gradually added to its Botanical Garden.

At present, the Botanical Garden allows for intensive didactic activity as well as important research to be conducted on its grounds. It also cares for the preservation of many rare species. In 1997, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site on the following grounds:

The Botanical Garden of Padua is the original of all botanical gardens throughout the world, and represents the birth of science, of scientific exchanges, and understanding of the relationship between nature and culture. It has made a profound contribution to the development of many modern scientific disciplines, notably botany, medicine, chemistry, ecology and pharmacy.

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User Reviews

Michaël Bonnet (6 months ago)
Nice but they got the "great" idea to close the greenhouse in the middle of the tourist season (July)

Ramez Salem (6 months ago)
If you have an extra time in padova and you want to discover plants its the place for you, most recommanded is the museum building

Beverly Zygmunt (10 months ago)
It was a lovely day in April so perfect weather for going to this park. Seniors like me pay 8 euros to enter, rather than the usual 10 for younger adults. A number of plants and trees were blooming. The walks are well-maintained.

Devansh (10 months ago)
The main buildings with greenhouses were closed due to refurbishment, so check before your visit. Also the season matters. For the price we paid there was really not much to see in April. I am sure it would be wonderful when fully open.

Chia-chen Lehahn (2 years ago)
What a wonderful place. This is my favourite botanical garden. We spent the whole morning here but it was still not enough to explore this place. Thumbs up for those who designed the museum. Many interactive multimedia for visitors to learn about the amazing and interesting world of plants. The modern green house is great too. 10€ for the entry fee is definitely worth it.

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Padua Botanical Garden

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