A mere 8km outside of Athens, Diomidous Botanical Garden sits like a green haven in amidst the bustling city; 1,800 hectares of peaceful tranquillity in the western suburbs of Haidari. Its extensive array of flora includes a number of rare species as well as a selection of trees from Africa, Asia and Australasia.
Used as an area to study for students from the University of Athens it's also a botanists dream with a number of pharmaceutical plants.
The Diomidous Botanical Gardens are a unique ecosystem housing both wild and cultivated species (organized by geography and theme).
A historical plants section offers up species mentioned in Greek mythology and the Old Testament, such as the laurel dedicated to Apollo (Laurus nobilis), the ivy dedicated to Dionysus (Hedera helix) and the narthex (Ferula communis), the giant fennel stalk in which Prometheus hid fire stolen from Zeus.
Photo courtesy: Paris Tavitian (lifo)
The Herbarium includes 19,000 dried plant samples, most from protected areas belonging to the NATURA 2000 network.
After a cooling stroll along the bamboo path, visit the section on plants and economy, where you’ll find species that contribute to the world of modern commerce: fruits, vegetables, wood, fabrics, pigments, resins, scents and spices. Don’t miss the Egyptian lotus pond; as you’ll learn, it’s a misnomer, since the lotus originated in Asia.
Among the medicinal plants, you’ll find aloe, balsam, ginger, lavender and rosemary. In the nearby nursery and greenhouse, you’ll find sugar cane, pepper, cacti and endangered species.
Note: Cars, motorbikes, bicycles and pets are not permitted in the gardens. Ball games are strictly forbidden. Children under 14 years old must be escorted at all times.
Guided tours: Specialists conduct tours from Monday to Friday, by prior arrangement.
Call the Diomidous Botanical Gardens at 210-5811557.
Visit it`s website for more info
How to get there:
Take the Metro to Egaleo and then grab bus No. 801, 811, 845, 866 or X63
A Taxi (up to 4 persons) will cost around 9€/one way