Picture this a hidden oasis nestled within Hamburg’s bustling Planten un Blomen park. This is the Alter Botanischer Garten. Its history stretches back to 1821. Professor Johann Georg Christian Lehmann established it then. It was part of the old city wall.
Imagine a time before towering skyscrapers. Before the city’s rapid expansion. The Alter Botanischer Garten held a much larger space. It once boasted an alpine garden. Most of its plants moved to a new location in 1979. Herbal and medicinal plants remain. They cluster around the former city moat.
Today the Alter Botanischer Garten is primarily five interconnected greenhouses. They cover 2800 square meters. Architect Bernhard Hermkes designed them between 1962 and 1963. Step inside the Schaugewächshaus. You’ll find a subtropical paradise. Mediterranean plants thrive. Canary Islands flora flourishes. See South African and Californian specimens. Ancient trees like laurel and olive stand tall. Araucaria and eucalyptus trees tower above.
The Farnhaus is a fern lover’s dream. The Palmfarnhhaus holds ancient plants. Professor Lehmann himself described them back in 1834. The succulent house showcases plants from arid regions. Think African and American semi-deserts. Finally the tropical house is a humid haven. It’s about 800 square meters. It reaches thirteen meters high. Explore plants from across the globe. The focus is on South American flora and tropical crops.
The Alter Botanischer Garten holds remarkable collections. There are 30000 Aizoaceae accessions. These represent approximately 1500 species. Orchidaceae collections boast around 2500 accessions. Explore Bambusoideae Begoniaceae Bromeliaceae Cycadaceae Masdevallia Piperaceae and Zingiberaceae collections. These offer a glimpse into the remarkable diversity of plant life. This is why the Alter Botanischer Garten remains a beloved Hamburg treasure.
The Alter Botanischer Garten is more than just greenhouses. It’s a journey through time. It’s a testament to human dedication. Its history and its collections are captivating. Its future promises continued exploration and wonder. So take your time to wander through these peaceful enclosures. This place is a sanctuary in the heart of a vibrant city. Remember this quiet corner when you next need an escape. The Alter Botanischer Garten awaits.