Eden Project

Eden Project

England

85/100120 min

The Eden Project is a renowned visitor attraction located in a reclaimed china clay pit in Cornwall, England. It is famous for its two enormous biomes, which are geodesic domes constructed from hexagonal and pentagonal ETFE inflated cells supported by tubular steel frames. These biomes simulate distinct natural environments: one replicates a lush rainforest, making it one of the largest indoor rainforests globally, while the other mimics a Mediterranean climate. Beyond the biomes, the site includes extensive outdoor botanical gardens that feature native UK and Cornish plants, as well as species with significant prehistoric heritage. The Eden Project blends environmental education with spectacular horticultural displays, emphasizing sustainability and conservation. It also hosts cultural events, including concerts and seasonal markets, enhancing its appeal as a multifaceted attraction. The site has been featured in popular media such as the James Bond film "Die Another Day" and has contributed significantly to the local economy and environmental awareness.

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Astuce: For the best experience, visit during spring or early autumn to avoid peak crowds and enjoy mild weather. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended to secure entry and access any discounts available for groups or families. The Eden Project is accessible by a bus service from St Austell railway station, and parking is available on site funded by ticket sales. Check the official website for seasonal events like the winter ice rink and Christmas market, which offer unique visiting opportunities.

Faits intéressants

  • The Eden Project houses one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world within its rainforest biome.
  • The biomes consist of hundreds of hexagonal and pentagonal ETFE inflated cells supported by geodesic steel domes.
  • The site was used as a filming location for the 2002 James Bond film "Die Another Day".
  • Since 2012, the Eden Project has hosted the World Pasty Championships, celebrating Cornish culinary heritage.
  • In 2016, it became home to Europe's second-largest redwood forest with coast redwood saplings that can live up to 4,000 years and reach 115 meters in height.

Histoire

160

The Eden Project is situated in a former china clay pit that operated for over 160 years before becoming exhausted by the mid-1990s.

1981

Initially used as a filming location for the BBC's "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" in 1981, the site was transformed starting in 1998 after the project's conception in 1996.

2000

Despite construction challenges due to flooding from the water table, the visitor center opened in 2000, and the full complex was inaugurated in March 2001.

2005

Since then, the Eden Project has grown into a major environmental and educational hub, hosting significant events such as the Live 8 "Africa Calling" concert in 2005 and planting Europe's second-largest redwood forest in 2016.

The project has also played a vital role in boosting Cornwall's economy and environmental profile.

Guide du lieu

1
Rainforest Biome2001
Nicholas Grimshaw (architect)

This vast dome simulates a tropical rainforest environment, showcasing a diverse range of plants from humid tropical regions around the world. It is designed to educate visitors on rainforest ecosystems and their importance.

2
Mediterranean Biome2001
Nicholas Grimshaw (architect)

This dome replicates the warm, temperate climates of the Mediterranean, South Africa, California, and parts of Australia. It features plants adapted to dry summers and wet winters, illustrating biodiversity and water conservation.

3
Outdoor Botanical Gardens

Surrounding the biomes, these gardens display native Cornish and UK plants, along with species that tell the story of plant evolution and prehistoric flora.

Contact

Téléphone: 01726 811972

Map