CLUJ-NAPOCA BOTANICAL GARDEN

It is one of the most pleasant places in the city to rest and contemplate nature. Known as one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Eastern Europe, this unique place on the heights of the city was designed by Alexandru Borza in 1920. Its 11,000 varieties of plants from all over the world, spread over 14 hectares, are used for research, conservation and public education. Thus, important research on edible plants is carried out here and the scientists in charge of this garden are in contact with colleagues from many countries. Outdoors, you will visit a Gyo-no-niwa-style Japanese garden with bridges and gates, and a beautiful rose garden surrounded by other ornamental plants from all over the world and from all walks of life. A section of ancient cultures allows you to rediscover plants that are nowadays neglected. A section of medicinal plants, coastal flora and real forests will complete your walk. Some of the plants are sheltered under gigantic greenhouses. One is a collection of large palm trees, banana and cocoa trees. Another is devoted to cacti of all sizes and origins. Yet another is home to more than 50 species of orchids. Mediterranean and Australian plants grow side-by-side, while olive, fig and eucalyptus trees grow elsewhere. Finally, the most impressive is in the aquarium greenhouse, with its giant Amazon lotus, almost 1.5 m in diameter, carnivorous plants and papyrus.