Title: Hortus Bulborum, Limmen – A Living Museum of Spring Bulbs

#cityplaybook #familytrip #localguides Nestled in the quaint Dutch village of Limmen in North Holland, Hortus Bulborum is a unique botanical garden dedicated entirely to spring-flowering bulbous plants. More than just a garden, it is a living museum that preserves over 4,000 varieties of historic tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses, and fritillaries—some dating back to the 16th century. Founded in 1928 by schoolteacher Pieter Boschman, Hortus Bulborum was born out of a passion for preserving the heritage and biodiversity of bulb flowers. Today, it is the only place in the world where you can admire ancient tulips such as the ‘Duc van Tol Red and Yellow’ from 1595, alongside many forgotten but beautiful cultivars that are no longer commercially grown. Open to the public each year during spring (April to mid-May), the garden bursts into vibrant color, drawing horticulturists, historians, and tourists alike. Each flowerbed is meticulously labeled with variety names and dates, offering not just beauty but a fascinating insight into the evolution of bulb breeding over centuries. Hortus Bulborum is not a commercial nursery; it is maintained entirely for conservation, education, and appreciation. It partners with botanical institutions worldwide to protect genetic diversity and serve as a reference for researchers and growers. A visit to Hortus Bulborum is like stepping back in time—a peaceful and inspiring experience where you can wander among rare and heirloom flowers, many of which existed long before the Dutch Golden Age of tulip mania. #hortusbulborum #limmen #historictulips #dutchheritage #tulipgarden #botanicalmuseum #springflowers #heirloombulbs #netherlandstravel #flowerpreservation #horticulturaltreasure #dutchgardens #uniqueflowergarden #gardentourism