Forstbotanischer Garten Tharandt

The Forstbotanischer Garten is a botanical garden and arboretum displaying over 3,200 plant species across about 33 hectares (82 acres). The space features one of Europe's largest collections of cold-resistant woody plants arranged across sloping terrain.

The garden was founded in 1811 by Heinrich Cotta as part of a forestry college and ranks among the world's earliest scientific tree collections. These origins established it as a center for forest research and forester training.

The place is named after a forest botanist and functions as a teaching and research center for Dresden University of Technology. Visitors often see researchers and students examining plants and taking measurements throughout the garden.

The garden is open to visitors from March through October and can be explored on foot at your own pace. Marked walking paths help with orientation, and group tours are available upon request.

The Schweizerhaus, built in 1842, houses a forest-themed museum and garden shop filled with forestry materials. This building in Swiss architectural style reveals the historical connection between German and Swiss forestry practices.

Location: Tharandt

Part of: TU Dresden

Website: http://forstpark.de

GPS coordinates: 50.98436,13.57819

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:04