The Hortus Botanicus, on the edge of the hectic centre of Amsterdam, is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world.
Today, there are more than 6000 plants of over 4000 species growing in the garden and seven climactically controlled greenhouses.
Originally, the Hortus was a medicinal herb garden, founded in 1638 by the Amsterdam City Council. At that time, herbs were of vital importance as the basis of medicines, and the city had just experienced a plague epidemic. Doctors and pharmacists trained in the preparation of prescriptions at the Hortus.
Thanks to the ships of the Dutch East India Company, the Hortus expanded quickly in the 17th and 18th centuries. The ships brought not only herbs and spices, but also exotic ornamental plants. A few of the Hortus' "crown jewels" date from that time - such as the 300-year-old Eastern Cape giant cycad.
The Orangery sits in the middle of the gardens and has one of the most beautiful outdoor cafés in Amsterdam.