Liptovský Hrádok Arboretum

Liptovský Hrádok, Slovakia, Slovakia

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Liptovský Hrádok Arboretum (Hrádocké arborétum) is a protected arboretum located in the northern part of Liptovský Hrádok, Slovakia, and is the highest-altitude arboretum in Central Europe at 650 meters above sea level.

Originally built in 1777 when the first 200 lime trees were planted to commemorate the coronation of Maria Theresa, it later became the foundation of a decorative English park and forest botanical park, and now ranks among the oldest arboretums in Slovakia, having been established in the late 18th century.

The arboretum covers 7.24 hectares (originally 21 hectares, now reduced to about 7 hectares) but contains the third-largest dendrological collection on Slovakia with approximately 740 woody taxons, including diverse species from America, Europe, Asia, and notable rhododendron collections. It serves as a demonstration object for forestry school dendrology students and functions as a natural museum dedicated to preserving vanishing and precious woody plants.

The site is open year-round, located near the polyclinic in the city center, and is a popular recreational zone for the city featuring a charming linden alley ideal for walks and relaxation. It is protected as a national cultural heritage monument and a protected area with level 4 protection status.