Troodos Botanical Garden: A Mountain Sanctuary

The Troodos Botanical Garden, officially named the Troodos Botanical Garden “A.G. Leventis,” is a captivating sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Cyprus’s indigenous plant life. Located within the Troodos National Forest Park, near the village of Pano Amiantos, it stands as a testament to the island’s commitment to environmental conservation and the restoration of previously industrial landscapes. Established in 2004 and opened in 2010, the garden occupies a portion of the former Amiantos asbestos mine, which ceased operations in 1988. This transformation from an industrial site to a flourishing garden highlights the potential for ecological renewal and serves as an educational example of land rehabilitation. The garden is home to over 250 plant species, with plans to expand to over 500, each carefully curated and arranged into thematic sections. Visitors can explore thematic sections such as Endemic Plants, Riverine Vegetation, an Arboretum, and Aromatic and Traditional Garden Plants. The garden also features a visitor center with exhibits, a herbarium, and an outdoor school for educational activities. A viewpoint with a telescope offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The garden is part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the region's biodiversity. It's one of three botanical gardens established by the Department of Forests, with the other two located in Athalassa (Nicosia) and Akamas (Baths of Aphrodite).