Hortus Botanicus a Botanical Garden Full of Nature and History
The Hortus Botanicus offers a wealth of greenery in the heart of the city: a botanical garden with plants from all over the world. Winding paths lead past ponds, borders, and age-old trees. The garden is quite compact, abundant with flowering plants against the backdrop of greenhouses. Each season the Hortus looks different, making no two visits the same.
Greenhouses and Gardens of the Hortus Botanicus
Palm House and Three-Climate House
The greenhouses are an important part of the Hortus Botanicus. The monumental Palm House is an eye-catcher and home to various palm trees and tropical plants, creating a sheltered, warm environment. Filtered light shines through the glass roof, highlighting the texture of the leaves and trunks.
The Three-Climate Greenhouse is divided into three climate zones. You will walk past desert plants, subtropical vegetation, and experience the humid tropical heat. This is a particularly popular spot during the winter months, as it offers a stark contrast to the weather outside.
Victoria Amazonica: the famous water lily of the Hortus
One of the most famous plants at the Botanical Garden in Amsterdam is the Victoria Amazonica. This water lily, also known as ‘the queen of the water lilies‘, grows in the garden’s outdoor pond. Its enormous, round leaves can reach impressive sizes and look as if they have stepped straight out of a film about extraterrestrial life.
The flowers of the Victoria water lily are remarkable. They open at dusk and bloom for only one night. During the flowering season, the Hortus sometimes stays open longer, allowing visitors to watch the flowers unfold.
Butterfly Garden of the Hortus Botanicus
The butterfly garden is a popular part of the Hortus because tropical butterflies fly freely within the greenhouse. There is plenty of opportunity to see them up close, especially when they land on one of the flowers for nectar.
Exhibitions and Activities
The Hortus Botanicus more than just a botanical garden. Throughout the year, there are rotating exhibitions featuring different plants. These exhibitions often focus on rare or unique species.
The Hortus also organizes lectures,excursions, and concerts. During the summer months, you can listen to live music in the garden on Sundays. For children, there are scavenger hunts that tie in with the season and current exhibitions.
The Hortus Botanicus as a Green Oasis in Amsterdam
The location of the Hortus Botanicus makes the garden particularly attractive. In is located in the centre of the city, within walking distance of attractions such as the National Maritime Museum and the Wereldmuseum.
On summer days, the trees and plants offer a cool respite, while the terrace is a pleasant spot to relax. In winter, the greenhouses are particularly attractive and an ideal place to escape the cold outside.
History of the Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
The Beginnings of the Botanical Garden
The history of the Garden dates back to 1638. At that time, the city had just experienced a severe plague epidemic. That’s why the city council decided to establish a botanical garden where medicinal herbs were grown for the preparation of medicines.
The Role of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the Plant Collection
In the 17th and 18th centuries, global trade played a major role in the growth of the collection of plants and herbs. Thanks to the VOC ships, plants from Asia, Africa, and South America reached Amsterdam. Many of these exotic species were still unknown in Europe, making the Hortus an important centre for botanical research.
Some plants from this period have become an integral part of the garden. The Victoria Amazonica is a well-known example and is still cultivated and exhibited annually.
Why the Hortus Botanicus is a must-see in Amsterdam
The Garden uniquely combines nature, science, and history. Despite its relatively small size, it is home to more than 6,000 plants of approximately 4,000 species. This diversity, combined with the tranquil atmosphere and central location, makes the Hortus a special attraction.
Practical Information and Tickets
The Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam is located at Plantage Middenlaan 2A, Amsterdam. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Make your visit smooth and easy buy your tickets for the Hortus Botanicus online
