Botanic Gardens, Antwerp

Right in the heart of the city, amidst the chaos of the urban life of Antwerp is a quiet and tranquil place. What started off as a small medicinal garden to benefit the students of medicine and science is today one of the most loved public gardens in Antwerp. Created over 200 years ago, the Botanic Gardens were strictly used by Saint Elisabeth Hospital that still stands and functions today. A popular stop for locals, the Botanical Gardens till date is a relatively undiscovered haven of peace and serenity within Antwerp.

Boasting a wide variety of over 2000 species of plants the Botanical Gardens are a protected landscape. In fact, many of the plants grown within the Botanical Gardens are categorized as endangered species and are legally protected. Embellished with ornate lamp posts and sculptures, the Botanical Gardens have picture perfect scenery with a little pond to add to the beauty of its greenery. The Gardens also have within them a green house, which unfortunately is closed for visitors.

Dominating the Gardens is the statue of Peeter van Coudenberghe, a pharmacist and botanist who lived during the 16th century. An avid gardener, Peeter was known for his extensively grown herb garden. So passionate was he about his plants, he stored them in an underground repository during the harsh winters. For tranquility or for the love of botany, the Gardens must be visited if you are in Antwerp.