Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is a magnificent botanical garden located in Montpellier, France. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world and has been open to the public since 1693. The garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants, including some of the most rare and endangered species in the world. It is a beautiful oasis of nature in the middle of the bustling city of Montpellier.
History
The Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier was founded by Pierre Richer de Belleval in 1693. He was a botanist and physician who wanted to create a garden to cultivate and study plants. The garden was originally called the Jardin du Roi, or the King’s Garden, and it was open to the public for a fee. In 1793, the garden was renamed Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier. Over the centuries, the garden has grown and expanded, becoming one of the largest botanical gardens in the world.
Features
The Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is divided into several sections. There is the main garden, which is home to a wide variety of plants, including rare and endangered species. There is also a tropical greenhouse, a rock garden, a cactus garden, a pond, a rose garden, and an orangery. There are also several walking trails and a small zoo.
The garden also features several sculptures and art installations. There is a large collection of sculptures from the 19th century, as well as contemporary works. The garden also hosts several special events throughout the year, such as concerts, workshops, and festivals.
Visiting the Garden
The Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is open to the public every day from 9:00am to 7:00pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Visitors can explore the garden on their own or take a guided tour. The garden also offers several educational programs for children and adults.
Gardens and Exhibits
- Main Garden – home to a variety of plants, including rare and endangered species.
- Tropical Greenhouse – a large greenhouse filled with exotic plants from around the world.
- Rock Garden – a garden filled with rocks and cacti.
- Cactus Garden – a garden filled with cacti from around the world.
- Pond – a large pond filled with water lilies and other aquatic plants.
- Rose Garden – a garden filled with roses from around the world.
- Orangery – a large greenhouse filled with orange trees.
Events and Activities
- Concerts – the garden hosts several concerts throughout the year.
- Workshops – the garden offers workshops on gardening and plant care.
- Festivals – the garden hosts several festivals throughout the year.
- Educational Programs – the garden offers several educational programs for children and adults.
The Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier is the perfect destination.