Grugapark, Botanical park in Essen, Germany
Grugapark is a 65-hectare park in Essen with extensive gardens, lakes, tropical houses and a collection of 40 sculptures spread across the site. The layout combines plant displays with open lawns where visitors walk between shaded tree groves and flower beds.
The park opened in 1929 for the Great Ruhrland Garden Exhibition and marked a shift from heavy industry toward green public spaces in Essen. After World War II the site was restored and expanded over the following decades.
The name blends 'green' with 'garden' and recalls the major horticultural show held here in 1929. Today locals use the grounds for jogging, picnics or weekend family gatherings.
The park offers sports facilities, adventure playgrounds, a petting zoo, a pony farm and a miniature train that carries visitors around the site. Most areas are accessible by wheelchair or stroller and the paths are wide enough for easy walking.
The site contains a gradation tower where visitors can breathe salt-enriched air while surrounded by gardens and water features. This structure was originally used for salt production and now serves as an open-air inhalation space.
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