An unmissable destination for Botany enthusiasts, Photography enthusiasts, or simply those who want to take a rejuvenating stroll amidst the scents, colors, and majestic ancient Trees.
The Botanical Garden of the University of Palermo is a paradise for botanists and visitors, with thematic itineraries that blend history, nature, and art.
One of the most important botanical gardens in Europe, a true open-air Museum and an oasis of peace in the heart of the city.
The Garden covers approximately 10 hectares and is home to over 12,000 plant species.
Main Sections, Collections, and Points of Interest
– Systematic Area
Collections organized by botanical families (approximately 250), with native and exotic species. These include the Palmeto with 34 genera of palms (including Chamaerops humilis, the only one native to Sicily); Bamboo Grove and an exotic one with a papyrus pond.
– Historic Greenhouses
Tropical Greenhouse (with a statue of the Genius of Palermo since 2020);
Maria Carolina Greenhouse (1859, with a Parisian basin), an imposing 19th-century iron and glass structure, the heart of the winter garden with tropical and subtropical species;
Pineapple Greenhouse
– Aquarium and Fountains
18th-century water basins. Three concentric pools with a central rock; neoclassical fountains decorated by Giuseppe Velasco (1795).
The Aquarium: A large circular pool divided into 24 sections, home to various species of aquatic plants.
– Herbarium Mediterraneum
Over 300,000 dried specimens of vascular plants, ferns, mosses, algae, fungi, and lichens; seed bank (germplasm).
– Ficus macrophilla columnaris magnolioides
The symbol tree of the Garden. A giant magnolioides figwith imposing aerial roots, imported from the Norfolk Islands in 1845. It is one of the most photographed attractions.
– The Villa Garden (or “Old Garden”)
The oldest part, with geometric paths, home to centuries-old trees and the first collections.
– Succulent Garden
with succulents and cacti, among the most important collections in Italy.
– Cycad Collection
Rare and fascinating prehistoric plants, found in only a few European botanical gardens.
– Palmetum
One of the largest palm collections in Italy, with varieties from around the world.
– The Arboretum
The largest part, designed as an English garden, with wide paths and large trees such as the majestic Ceiba speciosa (false kapok).
– Bamboo Forest
An area dedicated to various species of bamboo and exotic plants.
– Citrus Grove
Over 100 varieties of citrus fruits, many of which are traditionally Sicilian.
– Special Collections
Areas dedicated to specific botanical families, such as Palms (one of the richest collections in Europe), Cicus, Succulents, and Useful Plants (food, fiber, spices).
– The Planet of Plants – Tineo Room
A unique immersive experience featuring projections, interactive installations, and digital herbariums. Discover the history of the plant world in a whole new way, thanks to the multimedia installation.
Visits can be independent, following the routes and directions, or guided by reservation. Guided tours for groups or schools are organized by the Education Office.
Also accessible to those with Disabilities.
Spring and Autumn Festival
Also at the Botanical Garden, twice a year, the Zagara Event, a specialized flower and plant market and exhibition, is held. The first takes place in mid-May (Spring Zagara) and the second in late October (Autumn Zagara).
at the University of Palermo
Via Lincoln 2
Palermo
Sicily – Italy
What to do see, where to go places to visit weekend city municipality natural tourist attractions gardens and botany tourist interest nature