Ever wondered about the hidden history of Brussels’ Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin? Right before you stands a place steeped in history a vibrant green oasis in the heart of the city.
The Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin wasn’t always here. Its story begins long ago in 1797. A smaller plant garden Jardin des plantes existed near the city’s first wall. It housed native and exotic species. The city’s growth forced its relocation. In 1826 five botany enthusiasts secured a six-hectare wooded lot. This became the new home of the burgeoning plant collection. The Royal Horticultural Society of the Netherlands was born. It aimed to be both a private enterprise and a national institution.
The Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin’s beautiful building wasn’t built overnight. Architect Tilman-François Suys and decorative artist Pierre-François Gineste were involved in its creation. The construction lasted from 1826 to 1829. German landscape gardener Charles-Henri Petersen designed the original gardens. The grand opening in 1829 included fireworks celebrations and a banquet. It marked the first horticultural product exhibition.
Belgian independence in 1830 saw the institution become the Royal Horticultural Society of Belgium. Financial struggles led to a plant trade being established at the orangery in 1835. Vegetables and mushrooms were grown in the basement. An accidental innovation occurred. Head gardener Frans Bresiers created the Belgian endive.
The Belgian State finally purchased the Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin in 1870. This secured its future. The state wanted to protect the garden’s panorama and scientific purpose. The garden became a public park. Enhancements followed. Fountains electrical lighting and numerous sculptures were added between 1894 and 1898. These additions beautified the park and boosted public art. Victor Hugo himself praised the garden’s unique panorama.
The construction of the North-South connection in the 1930s threatened the Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin. A move to a larger location was decided. In 1938 most botanical resources relocated to the National Botanic Garden of Belgium in Meise. The old garden was downsized and redesigned. Ren’e Pech`ere a landscape architect redesigned the garden. He created three terraces with French English and Italian design elements.
Today the original botanical building serves as Le Botanique a cultural center. Its historical statues and remarkable trees remain. The Jardin botanique-Kruidtuin continues its gradual restoration. It’s a testament to the enduring beauty and rich history of Brussels. It’s a treasure well worth exploring.