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Botanical Garden of Naples

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Botanical Garden of Naples (Italy)

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The Botanical Garden of Naples, officially known as the Real Orto Botanico, was founded in 1807 by a decree of Joseph Bonaparte and completed in 1810 under Joachim Murat. Spanning approximately 12 hectares in the San Carlo all'Arena district, it is managed by the University of Naples Federico II. The garden currently houses about 25,000 plant specimens, representing nearly 10.000 different species from all over the world. The facility is divided into various thematic sectors, including the arboretum, the succulent collection, the fern house, and the experimental area for economic plants. A particularly notable feature is the historical greenhouse built in the 19th century, which is now considered a monument of architectural and scientific history. The garden serves not only as a sanctuary for rare plant species but also as a major center for botanical research and environmental education in Southern Italy. Its central location provides a vital green space within the densely populated city of Naples while preserving the scientific heritage of the Bourbon era.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C781013182326262117139
Rain mm8868705647332524687611684

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The garden is located in the historic center of Naples; it is best reached directly by metro or local bus lines for the convenience of visitors.
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Best season
From March to June, the garden is in its full splendor; in summer, the arboretum provides pleasant shade during high temperatures for visitors.
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Terrain & paths
The paths are largely level and accessible, allowing for a relaxed stroll through the various botanical zones for all types of visitors.
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What to bring
Comfortable footwear and sun protection are advisable; drinking water is usually easily available at kiosks near the entrance area of the garden.
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Parking
Parking in the immediate vicinity is extremely difficult; it is strongly recommended to use public transport or a central parking garage instead.
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Safety
Standard urban safety precautions apply; do not touch any plants that might cause irritation or allergies during your walk through the garden.
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Time needed
Plan for at least 2 hours to see the extensive tree collections and the historic greenhouses at your leisure during your visit to the garden.

Geography

Coordinates
40.86000, 14.26000

Facts

  • Founded in 1807 by a decree of Joseph Bonaparte.
  • Covers an area of approximately 12 hectares in Naples.
  • Houses around 25,000 plant specimens from across the globe.
  • Has been part of the University of Naples Federico II since 1812.
  • The first plant catalog was published in 1810.
  • Features a significant fern house and succulent collection.

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Botanical Garden of Naples (10)

Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli alle Croci

Church in Naples, Italy.

Teatro Totò

Theatre in Naples.

Chiesa di Santa Maria Avvocata dei Peccatori

Church in Naples, Italy.

Botanical Garden of Naples

Botanical garden in Italy.

🕒 Mo,We,Fr 09:00-14:00; Tu,Th 09:00-16:00; Sa-Su off🆓

Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Church in Naples, Italy.

Museo di Paleobotanica ed Etnobotanica🏛 museum

Temporarily closed (as of 2024/11/15).

Museo tattile-olfattivo🏛 museum

Museum offering touch and smell experiences in Naples.

Teatro San Ferdinando

Theatre in Naples, Italy.

Parco dell'Osservatorio Astronomico di Capodimonte🌳 park

Research institute in Naples, Italy, with a park.

Jago Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Naples.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Naples Botanical Garden located?
On Via Foria, right in the historic center of the city.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entrance is often free for individual visitors, but prior reservation via email is usually mandatory.
What are the highlights of the collection?
The palm collection, the succulent house, and the arboretum are particularly worth seeing.
What are the opening hours?
Usually only on weekdays in the morning (approx. 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM). Check the official website.
Who founded the garden?
Joseph Bonaparte founded it in 1807 during the French rule in Naples.
Botanical Garden of Naples: where is it located?
Botanical Garden of Naples is located in Italy.
Botanical Garden of Naples: what is there to see?
Highlights include Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli alle Croci, Teatro Totò, Chiesa di Santa Maria Avvocata dei Peccatori.
Botanical Garden of Naples: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Botanical Garden of Naples: why is it worth visiting?
The Botanical Garden of Naples, officially known as the Real Orto Botanico, was founded in 1807 by a decree of Joseph Bonaparte and completed in 1810 under Joachim Murat.
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