Apr 15 – Bicentenary House In Alameda Gardens Now Open To The Public
The Gibraltar Botanic Gardens’ new 'Bicentenary House' is now open to the public between 10am and 5pm. The house is named to mark the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the gardens which was celebrated yesterday.
Bicentenary House is a glasshouse that showcases plant species that cannot be successfully grown outdoors in Gibraltar. One side is a humid, tropical section with orchids and other rainforest species, whilst the other is an arid zone with desert plants.
The public is invited to visit this new and exciting attraction in the Alameda. Bicentenary House is located along the Main Walk of the Alameda, which lies immediately south of the entrance on Europa Road, opposite the Rock Hotel.
At an opening ceremony yesterday afternoon, Dr Keith Bensusan, Director of the Alameda Gardens, remarked on the significance of yesterday’s anniversary event: “This year marks a milestone for the Alameda Gardens. It’s such an integral part of Gibraltar that I’m sure that, in due course, it will be celebrating its tercentenary and beyond.”
Minister for the Environment Dr John Cortes described the event as a “very emotional moment” as he was returning to the gardens which he managed for 20 years.
“Today is a historic day for the Alameda – they are part of our heritage and these are only the first 200 years,” he said.
The Chief Minister called the gardens “an absolute gem” adding: “I hope the gardens will continue to be a place with a very special meaning for Gibraltarians and have a special place in all of our hearts.”
Pic top left: Governor Lt Gen Edward Davis helps cut the ribbon
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