1842

In 1842, the first Botanical Garden was established in Tenerife, marking a significant milestone in the natural history of the Canary Islands. Known as the Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava, this garden was created under the direction of Agustín de Betancourt y Molina, a prominent Canarian engineer and scientist. Its primary aim was to acclimatize exotic plant species brought from America and Asia for subsequent distribution in Europe. This project reflected the 19th-century growing interest in botany and scientific exploration. The garden not only contributed to botanical knowledge but also boosted local tourism and economy by attracting scientists and visitors from around the world. Its creation underscored the importance of the Canary Islands as a bridge between continents and a place of cultural and scientific exchange.