1545 Botanical Garden - University of Padua, called Orto Botanico di Padova

The Botanical Garden of the University of Padua, known as Orto Botanico di Padova, was established in 1545 by Francesco Bonafede (1474-1558), a distinguished physician and a student of Luca Ghini. Located in Padua, Italy, the University of Padua became the site of this historic garden, which is recognized as the world's oldest academic botanical garden still in its original location.

Francesco Bonafede founded the garden with the primary focus on cultivating medicinal plants and providing practical education to medical students. The garden served as an essential resource for the study of botany and pharmacology, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with plants used in medicine. Beyond its educational purposes, the garden also played a critical role in the study and classification of plant species.

Throughout the centuries, the Orto Botanico di Padova saw the contributions of several notable botanists who significantly shaped its development. Luigi Anguillara (1512-1570) was one of the early directors who expanded the plant collections and enhanced the garden's scientific reputation. During the 17th century, the garden flourished under the direction of Giuseppe Monti (1682-1760), who introduced new plant species and improved the garden's infrastructure.

 Girolamo Porro (1520–1606), general plan of the botanical garden of Padua, 1591

In the 18th century, the garden continued to evolve with the influence of botanists such as Giovanni Marsili (1727-1795) and Antonio Vallisneri (1661-1730). Marsili's work in plant taxonomy and Vallisneri's contributions to botanical research further established the garden's status as a leading center for botanical studies. The garden also played a vital role in the exchange of botanical knowledge and plant specimens with other European botanical gardens.

The Orto Botanico di Padova experienced various historical events and transformations through the 18th century, adapting to advancements in botanical science and changes in academic priorities. Its enduring legacy as a center for botanical education and research continues to be celebrated, reflecting its foundational purpose and historical significance in the scientific community.