In Valencia's old city centre, you will discover a living museum with amazing green creations guarded by quirky cats.
Once it started growing medicinal plants, Jardí Botànic is now used for university study and recreation. It's famous for its unique palm trees and cacti but also has Mediterranean plants, carnivorous plants, orchids, ferns, and several stray cats right in Valencia's centre.
My favourite place is the cactus section, where you'll find prickly weird plants of every size and shape. Some grow in strange directions yet remain perfectly balanced, while others are super spiky or decorated with juicy fruit. In spring, many cacti bloom, creating a colourful spectacle!
I also love the tropical greenhouse, an aromatic wonderland and home to exotic species like the mangrove tree (Pandanaceae). This strange tree looks a bit like a many-legged scarecrow.
El Botànic is a place you can visit any time of year, and it will always surprise you with its changing shape, colour, smell, and sound. While the greenery might amaze you, the cats don't seem to care and instead look for a shady spot to relax.
The botanical garden hosts various activities, like a cacti day or guided excursions to other botanical areas. For more details, check its website.
When you visit Valencia, I highly recommend visiting the Jardí Botànic. For just 3 euros, you can experience this extraordinary place. The price includes free concerts of bird whistling and cat meowing.
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