University of Tartu Botanical Gardens

The University of Tartu Botanical Gardens spreads across extensive grounds featuring a wide variety of plant species organized into different zones and sections. The site includes both outdoor gardens and several greenhouses designed to recreate specific climate conditions for various plant types.

The gardens began in the early 1800s and were moved to their current location where they have operated continuously ever since. This makes them among the oldest of their kind in the entire region and a long-established part of the local landscape.

The gardens reveal how plants from across the globe adapt to their environments, with each section showing different growing conditions and ecosystems. Walking through these spaces helps visitors understand the relationships between plants and their habitats.

The grounds are easily reached on foot and feature pathways that connect the various areas, making it simple to explore at your own pace. Wearing appropriate footwear is helpful since the terrain varies throughout the site, and weather conditions can affect ground conditions.

The gardens focus heavily on protecting plant species that are native to the local region and hard to find elsewhere in the world. Many of these species participate in international efforts to safeguard plants that face extinction risk.

Location: Tartu City

Inception: 1803

Part of: University of Tartu Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden

GPS coordinates: 58.38466,26.72115

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:25