Nestled within the vibrant Parc Borély lies a sanctuary of botanical wonders: the Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel. It is the principal botanical garden of Marseille. Imagine stepping into a world where thousands of plant species converge. These plants come from every corner of the globe. They are organized into nine themed gardens.
The Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel wasn’t always here. Its story stretches back to the 18th century. Initially near the Saint-Victor abbey, it later moved to the Chartreux district in 1802. The construction of the Marseille-Toulon railway forced another relocation in 1856. Finally, in 1918, the Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel found its permanent home here. It was named in honor of Édouard Marie Heckel. He was a renowned Marseille doctor and botanist.
Within the Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel, diversity reigns supreme. The Chinese garden, a gift from Shanghai, showcases traditional architecture. It features a pavilion, a kiosk, and a Koi carp-filled pond. The Japanese garden, inaugurated in 2011, celebrates Marseille’s bond with Kobe. It hosts an annual autumn festival.
Look toward the remarkable Villa Rose. This 19th-century building will soon house a documentation center. Its garden boasts edible plants from around the world. Also, a Ginkgo Biloba specimen thrives here.
Once abandoned, the tropical greenhouse, inspired by the Baltard pavilion, awaits renovation. Constructed in 1870, it was initially located on the Montcalm estate. It later found its place in the Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel in 1982.
Meander through the Mediterranean garden. A cascade, a torrent, and stone terraces evoke the region’s flora. Explore the medicinal plant collection. It is arranged like a traditional “garden of simples” from the Middle Ages. Discover South African species thriving in greenhouses. They bloom during the European winter. Admire climbing plants from various continents. They cling to pergolas. Explore the succulent greenhouse. It houses cacti, aloes, and agaves from the Americas. Discover trees and shrubs from Australia and New Zealand.
Stroll to the palmetum. Approximately sixty palm species coexist naturally. The Jardin botanique Édouard-Marie Heckel is a place where nature’s beauty and scientific exploration intertwine. It offers a serene escape. It provides insights into the botanical world. The garden is accessible and free since 2020. It invites everyone to explore its themed gardens and discover botanical treasures.