Linnaeus Garden | Uppsala

Linnaeus Garden (Linnéträdgården) is one of the most historically significant botanical gardens in Sweden, located in Uppsala. It was created by the famous Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus (1707–1778), the father of modern taxonomy, and it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the country. The garden offers a glimpse into the world of 18th-century botanical science, as well as the life and work of Linnaeus, who revolutionized the way we classify living organisms.

History and Foundation

• Established: The garden was originally founded in 1655, but it was Carl Linnaeus who transformed it into a center of scientific study and classification when he became its director in 1741. Linnaeus's involvement in the garden significantly influenced the development of botanical and horticultural practices at the time.
• Linnaeus's Vision: Linnaeus restructured the garden to serve as a living laboratory, where he could observe, study, and classify plants according to his binomial nomenclature system (the method of naming species with a two-part Latin name). He divided the garden into different sections based on his botanical classification system, which helped organize the vast diversity of plants in a way that was understandable and usable for future scientists.
• Historical Significance: Linnaeus's work at the garden not only influenced botany but also contributed to the broader field of natural sciences. The garden became an important site for the study of plant life and the exchange of botanical knowledge during his time.

Layout and Design

The Linnaeus Garden is designed to reflect the principles of Linnaeus’s system of classification and his approach to scientific observation. The garden covers 1.5 hectares and is divided into several sections, each dedicated to different types of plants.

• The Thematic Sections: The garden is organized into sections based on Linnaeus’s classification system, such as:
  • The Flower Beds: These are organized to reflect the plant groups classified by Linnaeus in his famous work, Species Plantarum (1753), which laid the foundation for the modern binomial naming system.
  • The Herb Garden: A traditional feature of botanical gardens, this area contains medicinal and edible plants that were used for various purposes in the 18th century.
  • The Rock Garden: A section that displays alpine and mountain plants, arranged according to their natural habitats.
  • The Shrub and Tree Areas: These sections showcase a variety of woody plants, both native to Sweden and from other parts of the world.
• The Central Lawn and Pond: The heart of the garden features a central lawn with a pond, surrounded by flower beds and pathways. The calm, serene setting allows visitors to appreciate the scientific beauty of Linnaeus’s vision and enjoy the atmosphere of the 18th-century botanical space.

Notable Features

• Linnaeus’s Statue: At the center of the garden stands a statue of Carl Linnaeus, celebrating his contributions to botany and natural science. The statue is an important symbol of Linnaeus's legacy and the garden's historical importance.
• The Plant Catalog: Linnaeus created detailed records of all the plants in the garden, organizing them according to his system of classification. Today, a catalog of these plants is still maintained, making the garden a living repository of botanical knowledge.

Thematic Focus and Plant Species

• Swedish and Exotic Plants: The garden contains a wide range of plants, both native to Sweden and from abroad, reflecting Linnaeus’s global influence as he classified species from around the world. It includes plants he studied during his travels, such as species from his expeditions to Lapland and the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.
• Historical Plants: The garden also features plants that were historically important in Sweden, many of which were used for medicinal or culinary purposes in the 18th century.

Modern Use and Role

Scientific Study: Though the garden is a historical site, it still serves as a botanical garden where students, researchers, and horticulturists can study plants. It is an essential resource for those studying botany and the legacy of Linnaeus.

Public Access and Education: The garden is open to the public year-round, offering a beautiful and educational space for both locals and visitors. It hosts tours, events, and educational programs designed to teach visitors about the history of Linnaeus and the science of botany. The garden also provides a tranquil space for relaxation and contemplation.

Linnaeus’s House: In addition to the garden itself, visitors can also tour Linnaeus’s house (Linnaeus’ Hammarby), which is located just outside Uppsala. This home, where Linnaeus lived for part of his life, further illuminates his work and daily life.

Visitor Experience

Opening Hours: The Linnaeus Garden is typically open to visitors throughout the year, with seasonal changes reflecting the garden's growth and the blooming cycles of various plants.

Events and Exhibitions: The garden hosts seasonal events, including educational workshops, plant identification activities, and special exhibitions. It also celebrates Linnaeus Day (on May 23rd), the anniversary of his birthday, with special events and activities.

Gardens and Shop: Visitors can purchase plants, books, and other related items from the garden’s shop. These often focus on Linnaeus’s legacy, botany, and Swedish natural history.

Conclusion

The Linnaeus Garden is not only a place of scientific and historical significance but also a serene and beautiful space for visitors to explore. It offers a glimpse into the scientific world of Carl Linnaeus, whose work laid the foundation for much of modern biology. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a history lover, or someone looking for a peaceful escape in Uppsala, Linnaeus Garden provides a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and the legacy of one of the most influential figures in science.