UNESCO Italy – 55 UNESCO Sites in Italy with photos and map
21. Botanical Garden Orto Botanico, Padua
The first botanical garden in the world from 1545.
Date of Inscription: 1997
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/824
Yachting in Balaton, Hungary - short 4k cinematic film
And don't forget to give us a like! :)
Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico), Padua, Unesco Italy by KLMircea
The Orto Botanico di Padova, or the Botanical Garden of Padua, is a historic botanical garden located in Padua, Italy. Established in 1545, it holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest academic botanical garden still in its original location. Let’s explore the significance and charm of this botanical oasis:
1. Historical Significance
Founded by the Venetian Republic as a center for the study of medicinal plants, the Orto Botanico di Padova played a crucial role in advancing botanical research during the Renaissance. It was initially associated with the University of Padua, one of the oldest universities in the world.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site
In recognition of its historical importance and contribution to botanical science, the Orto Botanico di Padova was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. It is considered an outstanding example of a Renaissance botanical garden and a place where the scientific method was applied to the study of plants.
3. Layout and Design
The garden’s original layout, attributed to the architect Andrea Moroni, follows a square plan divided into four quadrants. Each quadrant reflects a different theme, including medicinal plants, exotic plants, and those used in food and industry.
4. Circular Wall and Greenhouses
The garden is enclosed by a circular wall, originally designed for protection and later for aesthetic purposes. Within this enclosure are various greenhouses that house a diverse collection of plant species, including tropical and subtropical varieties.
5. The Well of Galileo
The Well of Galileo, named after the famous astronomer Galileo Galilei, is a well inside the garden that marks the spot where Galileo is believed to have lectured on the use of the telescope.
6. Medicinal Plant Collection
One of the garden’s primary purposes was the cultivation of medicinal plants for teaching and research. Even today, it maintains a significant collection of medicinal herbs, reflecting its historical role.
7. Biodiversity and Conservation
The Orto Botanico di Padova is home to a vast array of plant species, contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts. It serves as both a living museum and a research center for the study of plant life.
8. Educational and Scientific Hub
The garden continues to play a vital role in botanical education and research. It hosts educational programs, workshops, and scientific conferences, fostering a deeper understanding of plant biology and ecology.
9. Old Palms and Cycads
The garden boasts a collection of ancient palms and cycads, some of which are over a century old. These venerable specimens add to the garden’s charm and historical ambiance.
10. Art and Sculptures
The garden is adorned with sculptures and artistic elements, including the impressive Hercules Fountain and various statues representing figures from classical mythology.
11. Accessibility to the Public
While serving as a research institution, the Orto Botanico di Padova is also open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich botanical heritage and appreciate the beauty of its carefully curated plant collections.
12. Botanical Legacy
The Orto Botanico di Padova stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of botanical exploration and scientific inquiry. It has inspired generations of botanists and contributed significantly to the understanding of plant life.
A visit to the Orto Botanico di Padova offers not only a tranquil escape into the world of plants but also a journey through the annals of botanical history. It remains a living tribute to the scientific curiosity and intellectual pursuits of the Renaissance era.
