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Top 100 Botanic Gardens

Introduction

Top 100 Botanic Gardens is a list of botanic gardens around the world that are considered to be among the best in the field. These institutions have been recognized for their exceptional collections, innovative research, and commitment to education and conservation.

The list was compiled by The Guardian newspaper in 2007 as part of its "Top 100 Places to See in Your Lifetime" feature.

Key Facts

  • The Top 100 Botanic Gardens are located in over 70 countries around the world.
  • They cover an area of approximately 20 million hectares (49 million acres).
  • Many of these gardens have been established and expanded since the dawn of modern botany, with some dating back to ancient civilizations.

Historical Context

The development of botanic gardens dates back to the 16th century, when European explorers began collecting plant specimens from their travels. The first botanical garden was established in London in 1653 by Christopher Wren and John Ray. Since then, the number of botanic gardens around the world has grown exponentially.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many of these gardens were established in Europe, particularly in Britain, France, and Germany. However, with the advent of modern transportation and communication, new gardens have been established in many countries around the world.

Significant Contributions

Botanic gardens play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of plant diversity and ecology. They provide:

  • Collections: Botanic gardens are renowned for their extensive collections of plants from around the world.
  • Research: Many botanic gardens engage in cutting-edge research, often collaborating with universities and other institutions to advance knowledge in fields such as genetics, evolution, and conservation biology.
  • Conservation: Botanic gardens often serve as a hub for plant conservation efforts, providing a safe haven for endangered species and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.

Some notable examples of botanic gardens' contributions include:

  • Curtis Institute of Botanical Studies at Harvard University
  • National Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C.
  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK

Notable Attractions

Many of the Top 100 Botanic Gardens are renowned for their stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and unique collections. Some notable attractions include:

  • The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK - home to over 30,000 plant species
  • The Huntington Botanical Gardens, California, USA - featuring over 14,000

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  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/top_100_botanic_gardens