Orto Botanico di Palermo — Attraction in Palermo

Located in the heart of Palermo, Sicily, the Orto Botanico di Palermo, or the Palermo Botanical Garden, is a true gem that captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty and rich botanical diversity. During my travels, I've had the pleasure of visiting this botanical wonder twice, and each time, it left an indelible mark on my memory.

Spread across an expansive area, the garden is home to a remarkable collection of plants, trees, and botanical specimens from around the world. Established in 1789 by King Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, boasting a long and storied history.

One of the highlights of my visits was experiencing the garden during the summer months when it truly comes alive in a riot of colors and fragrances. The warm Mediterranean climate creates the perfect conditions for a wide variety of plant species to thrive, ranging from exotic tropical plants to indigenous Mediterranean flora.

Walking through the garden's winding paths, I was awestruck by the sheer diversity of plant life on display. From towering palms and majestic cacti to delicate orchids and vibrant flowering shrubs, every corner of the garden was a feast for the senses. The meticulously curated collections are a testament to the garden's dedication to botanical research, conservation, and education.

One of the garden's most iconic features is its majestic Ficus macrophylla, or Moreton Bay Fig trees, which are among the largest and oldest specimens in Europe. These ancient giants provide shade and shelter to visitors, inviting them to linger and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of their surroundings.

In addition to its impressive plant collections, the Orto Botanico di Palermo also boasts several architectural marvels, including ornate fountains, statues, and pavilions, which add to the garden's charm and character.

What struck me most about the Palermo Botanical Garden is its ability to transport visitors to a different world, where time seems to stand still amidst the lush greenery and blooming flowers. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, this magical oasis offers something for everyone.

Overall, my experiences at the Orto Botanico di Palermo were nothing short of magical, and I eagerly look forward to my next visit to this...

L'Orto Botanico is a magic place, but appears to be suffering from acute post-Covid neglect. I shall paste in the comments posted two weeks ago, by another reviewer:

POSTO BELLISSIMO ma senza alcuna cura... rami e foglie ovunque, piante morte non prelevate dalla terra... pesci e tartarughe in vasche luride... è un peccato perché il luogo è altamente meraviglioso ma se manca la manutenzione si trasforma in praticamente un bosco normale...

The level of neglect is impressive, and apart from two or three labourers tentatively sweeping away the mountains of dead leaves (which could easily cause a fire), there appears to be no initiative whatsoever.

The Bookshop, now apparently managed by a Culture Coop and run by a super efficient and courteous 'Ornella', is a joy to visit, with a wonderful selection of books, and the walls decorated with the floral prints we first saw at Palazzo Butera for Manifesta 12. Truly a touch of genius.

I repeat: the lack of initiative can only be explained by the...

I highly recommend visiting the Orto Botanico di Palermo! It is a beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of plants from all over the world. I was particularly impressed by the collection of cacti and succulents, as well as the Japanese garden. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

I visited the garden on a sunny day in September, and it was the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are many shady spots where you can take a break and people-watch. I also saw a few families with young children, and the kids seemed to be having a great time exploring the gardens.

Overall, I had a wonderful time at the Orto Botanico di Palermo. It is a great place to visit for people of all ages, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in plants,...