Notable Botanical Gardens and Arboreta in Hungary [Back]
Hungary's botanical gardens and arboreta play a crucial role in plant conservation, research, and education, reflecting the country's dedication to preserving its natural heritage.
Vácrátót Botanical Garden (Nemzeti Botanikus Kert, Vácrátót)
Located in Vácrátót, approximately 30 kilometers north of Budapest, this garden is maintained by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. It spans over 27 hectares and houses more than 13,000 plant species, making it the largest botanical garden in Hungary. Established at the end of the 18th century, it features diverse collections, including a rock garden with flora from various mountain ranges worldwide.
Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden (Fovárosi Állat- és Növénykert)
Situated in the heart of Budapest, this institution is one of the oldest zoos globally, having opened its doors on August 9, 1866. Covering 18.4 hectares, it houses over 1,000 animal species and a vast array of plant species. The garden features valuable Art Nouveau buildings and offers a unique blend of zoological and botanical exhibits.
ELTE Botanical Garden (Füvészkert)
Established in 1771, this is Hungary's oldest botanical garden. Located in Budapest's Józsefváros district, it covers 3 hectares and contains around 8,000 plant species. The garden is part of Eötvös Loránd University and serves educational and research purposes. It's also known for its historical glasshouses and diverse plant collections.
Szeged Botanical Garden (Szegedi Tudomnyegyetem Füvészkert)
Affiliated with the University of Szeged, this garden was founded in 1922. It spans 17 hectares and features approximately 5,000 plant species. Highlights include a Japanese garden, a collection of tropical and subtropical plants, and conservation programs for endangered species.
Jeli Arboretum (Jeli Arborétum)
Located near Kám in western Hungary, Jeli Arboretum is renowned for its extensive collection of rhododendrons. Established in the 1920s by Hungarian botanist István Ambrózy-Migazzi, it covers 74 hectares, making it one of the largest arboreta in the country. The garden showcases a variety of exotic and native plant species in a picturesque landscape.
Zirc Arboretum (Zirci Arborétum)
Situated in the town of Zirc, this arboretum is the highest-lying garden in Hungary, at an altitude of 400 meters. Covering 20 hectares, it was established in the 18th century by the Cistercian monks of Zirc Abbey. The arboretum features a diverse collection of native and exotic trees and shrubs, set in an English-style landscape garden.
Szarvas Arboretum (Szarvasi Arborétum)
Also known as 'Pepi-kert,' this arboretum is located near the town of Szarvas. Covering 82 hectares, it was founded in the 19th century by Count Péter Pál Bolza. The garden boasts a rich collection of tree species, including rare and exotic varieties, and serves as a significant center for botanical research and conservation.
Kámoni Arboretum (Kámoni Arborétum)
Found in the city of Szombathely, this 27-hectare arboretum is renowned for its extensive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. Established in the early 20th century, it also features a variety of native and exotic tree species, ponds, and walking paths, offering a serene environment for visitors.
Pannonhalma Arboretum (Pannonhalmi Arborétum)
Located near the Pannonhalma Archabbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this arboretum covers 22 hectares. It was established by Benedictine monks and features a diverse collection of trees and shrubs, including a notable collection of conifers. The garden serves both educational and recreational purposes.
Alcsútdoboz Arboretum (Alcsúti Arborétum)
Situated in the village of Alcsútdoboz, this 40-hectare arboretum was established in the 19th century as part of the Habsburg estate. It features a variety of native and exotic tree species, picturesque walking paths, and the remains of the historic Habsburg mansion. The arboretum is especially known for its snowdrop blooms in early spring.