Polish Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden – Center for Biological Diversity Conservation in Powsin

The Botanical Garden of the Polish Academy of Sciences – Center for Biological Diversity Conservation in Powsin is an important scientific institution, established in 1974, with equal emphasis on research and education. Its history dates back to 1928, when the first proposals to create a botanical garden in Warsaw emerged. After World War II, the principles for shaping the garden were defined in 1948, with further organizational efforts taking place in the 1950s and 1960s. The garden covers approximately 40 hectares and offers visitors 30 hectares of space, where nearly 10,000 plant taxa are gathered, divided into diverse collections such as an arboretum, ornamental plants, and utility plants. Architecturally, the garden features, among others, the Janówek Villa, which serves as an art gallery and a venue for cultural events, as well as the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Avenue, which commemorates prominent figures. Culture plays a key role in the garden's activities, with festivals, exhibitions, and the International Floralia Musical Piano Festival held here. The garden conducts extensive research in the field of biodiversity conservation and the collection of plant genetic resources. It is worth mentioning that in 1992, a unique cryobank for seeds of rare and protected species was established here, one of the few of its kind in Europe. The garden is recognized not only in Poland but also internationally. An interesting fact is that a papal oak commemorating John Paul II was planted on the grounds, and the garden is home to the largest collection of citrus plants in Poland. Over the past 50 years, the Botanical Garden of the Polish Academy of Sciences has become a significant center for research on biodiversity conservation, working to protect endangered plant species and promote education in ecology and environmental protection.