Old Botanical Garden

Explore the Historic Old Botanical Garden in Göttingen

If you're a nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Göttingen, the Old Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination. With its rich history, diverse plant collections, and stunning architectural features, this botanical garden offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

A Historical Gem

Established in 1736 by Albrecht von Haller, the Old Botanical Garden holds a significant place in Göttingen's history. Originally designed as a hortus medicus, it gradually expanded over the years to become the beautiful garden it is today. Despite the relocation of the university's natural science faculty, the Old Botanical Garden continues to thrive and captivate visitors.

A Botanical Wonderland

Spanning an impressive 4.5 hectares, the Old Botanical Garden boasts a remarkable collection of over 17,500 plant accessions, representing approximately 14,000 species. As you wander through the garden, you'll encounter major collections of bromeliads, cacti, ferns, marsh and aquatic plants, and mosses. The garden's systematic garden, arboretum, pond, rockery, and useful and medicinal plant garden offer a diverse range of plant species to explore.

Architectural Marvels

The Old Botanical Garden is not only a haven for plant enthusiasts but also a feast for the eyes with its stunning architectural features. The garden features eight greenhouses, each housing different plant collections, including bromeliads, orchids, carnivorous plants, and tropical rainforest flora. The three tunnels through the city wall that connect the garden's inner and outer sections add a unique touch to the overall experience.

Fun Facts and Nearby Attractions

Did you know that the Old Botanical Garden was replenished with plants after World War II and now holds one of the largest and most significant scientific collections of plants in Germany? It's a testament to the garden's resilience and dedication to preserving botanical diversity.

While exploring the Old Botanical Garden, keep an eye out for interesting animals at the "insect buffet" when the sun comes out. You might spot fascinating creatures like the "death's head hoverfly" buzzing around the scabiosas.

If you're looking to extend your botanical adventure, consider visiting the nearby Neuer Botanischer Garten der Universität Göttingen and the Forstbotanischer Garten und Arboretum. These two botanical gardens offer additional opportunities to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

When to Visit

The Old Botanical Garden is open daily, allowing visitors to experience its beauty throughout the year. From March to October, the garden welcomes visitors from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, while the opening hours are from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm from November to February. Admission to the garden is free, making it an accessible and affordable attraction for everyone.

Whether you're a plant enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, the Old Botanical Garden in Göttingen is a destination that will leave you enchanted. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore the diverse plant collections, and marvel at the garden's architectural wonders. Plan your visit and discover the magic of this historic botanical gem in the heart of Göttingen.