Botanical Garden, Uppsala
Uppsala län
The Botanical Garden of Uppsala University, known locally as Botaniska trädgården or simply Botan, is a historic and scientific landmark situated near Uppsala Castle in Sweden. Founded on land donated by King Gustav III in 1787, the garden incorporates a preserved Baroque garden designed by Carl Hårleman and features the Linneanum orangery, designed by Olof Tempelman and Louis Jean Desprez. The garden showcases a vast array of plant species from around the world, including tropical and arid plants housed in a large greenhouse. It is part of a group of Linnaean botanical sites in Uppsala, alongside the original Linnaean Garden and Linnaeus Hammarby, all managed by Uppsala University. The garden reflects the legacy of Carl Linnaeus, who significantly expanded the university's botanical collections and elevated the garden's scientific prominence in the 18th century. Today, it remains a popular destination for both education and recreation, offering visitors a unique blend of historical architecture, horticultural diversity, and cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visit during late spring to early autumn for the best experience when most plants are in bloom. Advance ticket purchase is generally not required, but check the official website for special exhibitions or events. The garden offers educational tours and has accessible facilities. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. The tropical greenhouse is a highlight, especially on colder days.
Interesting facts
- •The Botanical Garden includes one of the world's oldest preserved Baroque gardens designed by Carl Hårleman.
- •King Gustav IV Adolf once donated a live lion to the garden's collection, which was housed in the orangery.
- •Carl Linnaeus documented the garden's layout in his 1748 work "Hortus Upsaliensis," which remains a reference for the Linnaean Garden.
- •The garden is part of the Linnaean botanical heritage sites in Uppsala, including the Linnaean Garden and Linnaeus Hammarby.
- •The tropical greenhouse hosts a large variety of plants from both tropical and arid climates, enhancing the garden's diversity.
History
The first botanical garden in Uppsala was established in 1655 by Olaus Rudbeck the Elder but was damaged in the 1702 fire and neglected for decades.
Carl Linnaeus revitalized the garden in the 18th century, expanding its plant collections and scientific importance.
After Linnaeus' death, his student Carl Peter Thunberg successfully petitioned King Gustav III to donate new land for a larger botanical garden on higher ground near Uppsala Castle.
The new garden was developed from 1778 onwards, incorporating Baroque garden designs and an orangery built in 1802.
Over the 19th century, the garden transitioned from a university research site to a public educational and recreational space, and it remains under university management today.
Place Guide
Baroque Garden1744
This oldest part of the Botanical Garden was originally designed as a formal Baroque garden by architect Carl Hårleman in 1744. It features symmetrical flower beds, trimmed hedges, and historic pathways that reflect 18th-century garden aesthetics.
Linneanum Orangery1802
A historic orangery designed by Olof Tempelman and Louis Jean Desprez, built to house exotic plants and tropical species. It is a centerpiece of the garden and a testament to early botanical architecture.
Tropical Greenhouse
A modern greenhouse area located in the newer part of the garden across Norbyvägen, featuring plants from tropical and arid regions worldwide. It offers visitors a chance to experience exotic flora year-round.
Contact
Phone: 018-471 28 38
