Bern Botanical Garden, Botanical garden in Altenberg, Switzerland
Bern Botanical Garden is a scientific institution covering two hectares with seven greenhouses containing approximately 6,000 plant species from various global climates. The Alpinum section displays 1,500 alpine species sourced from mountain regions including the Pyrenees and Himalayas.
The garden was founded in 1859 and relocated twice before establishing itself at its current location. This settlement became a significant part of the University of Bern and its biological research programs.
The garden was established as a collection for scientific study and continues to serve the University of Bern for teaching and research. Visitors can observe how plants are systematically arranged to display their differences and relationships.
Admission to the garden is free, with winter opening hours from 8:00 to 17:00 and extended hours from 8:00 to 17:30 between March and September. The compact layout allows you to explore the entire site in an afternoon, and visiting the greenhouses is especially pleasant on rainy or cold days.
The garden displays a collection of cold-resistant succulents such as Agave, Yucca, and Opuntia varieties specifically adapted to Swiss climate conditions and thriving outdoors. These unusual plants demonstrate that exotic species can survive even in northern European settings.
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