Cosmovitral, Art Nouveau botanical garden in Toluca, Mexico
Cosmovitral is a botanical garden housed in a large glass and metal structure with Art Nouveau design in Toluca. The building displays plant collections from Central America, South America, Africa, and Asia within its glass framework.
The building originally served as a market constructed in 1909 for an important Mexican anniversary celebration. It was later transformed in the 1970s to function as a botanical garden.
The name reflects cosmic cycles, which artist Leopoldo Flores Valdés intended to represent through the colored glass modules. Visitors can see this symbolism in how the plants are arranged and in the color choices of the glass pieces.
The space can be explored on foot, with different sections arranged along pathways. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the ground varies between walkways and planted areas.
The ceiling features numerous colored glass elements that were specifically designed for the botanical use when it opened as a garden. This glasswork creates a special light experience that shifts throughout the day.
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