Ever wondered where doctors and apothecaries got their ingredients centuries ago? Here at the Kruidentuin, you are standing in one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens. This isn’t just any garden. It’s Amsterdam’s original herbal garden, the Hortus Botanicus.
Founded in 1638, the Kruidentuin, originally named Hortus Medicus, was Amsterdam City Council’s solution to healthcare. Back then, botanical extracts were the go-to treatment for illnesses. Physicians and pharmacists trained and tested their skills right here. Imagine them wandering these paths seeking cures.
The Kruidentuin’s collection grew thanks to the Dutch East India Company. Traders brought back plants and seeds from all over the world. These weren’t just for show. They were potential medicines and commercial opportunities. A single coffee plant from this garden became the parent for all coffee in Central and South America. Two oil palms here seeded Southeast Asia’s palm oil industry. That is a major source of revenue for Indonesia today.
In 1646, Johannes Snippendaal became the director. He cataloged 796 plant species, most of which were medicinal. You can still see many of these plants in the Snippendaal Garden. It is often called the 17th-century pharmacopoeia of Amsterdam.
Take a look around. The hexagonal pavilion dates back to the late 1600s. The entrance gate was built in the early 1700s. The Orangery came later in 1875. Don’t miss the Palm House and Hugo de Vries Laboratory. They showcase Amsterdam School expressionist architecture from 1912 and 1915.
Speaking of Hugo de Vries, he directed the Kruidentuin from 1885 to 1918. He brought international attention to this garden. The governing board even built the Palm House and laboratory to keep him here.
The Kruidentuin faced tough times. In 1987, it almost went bankrupt when the University of Amsterdam stopped funding it. But a community of supporters saved it. Now, the Amsterdam City Council helps support this historical treasure.
Today, the Kruidentuin is a popular attraction. People from all over the world come to see its trees and plants. Some of them are even endangered. You can find well-known plants like the Persian ironwood tree here. Recent additions include a large hothouse with three tropical climates. There are also halls for conferences and a café for visitors.
Besides the Hortus Botanicus, there is another medicinal garden. The medicinal kruidentuin was designed by Agnes Sleiffer. The design reflects the human body. Plants grow where they are needed in the body. There is also a kitchen herb garden nearby. You can even pick some herbs for your own use.
As you leave the Kruidentuin, remember its vital role in medical history and global commerce. It is a living museum. It connects us to the past and showcases the power of plants.