Utrecht University Botanic Gardens, Academic botanical garden in Utrecht Science Park, Netherlands
Utrecht University Botanic Gardens is a research facility in the Science Park with over 10,000 plant species from different regions around the world. A rock garden was constructed using approximately 2,100 tons of Ardennes stone and shapes the landscape.
The gardens were founded in 1639, three years after Utrecht University was established. After relocating to Fort Hoofddijk in 1963, greenhouses and research facilities were added to support scientific work.
The garden displays organized plant beds and an evolution garden where visitors can follow the development of plant species through scientific displays. This arrangement helps people understand plant diversity in a structured way.
The gardens close annually from December to March for maintenance work, though most paths remain accessible during regular hours. Plan your visit outside these months to access all areas fully.
A Ginkgo tree was planted here around 1730 and was among the first in Europe. This tree stands as a symbol of the botanical discoveries this institution helped advance.
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