When you visit Sydney, Australia, you may find yourself hurrying around in your car hire to keep up with the bustling tempo of the city. But, take a single step into the Royal Botanical Gardens there and you'll find that your pace has slowed dramatically.

Here is a collection of historical facts surrounding the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney, along with some of the living attractions you'll find there.

At the Information on the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney, Australia site, you'll read that the gardens claim the title of the oldest scientific institution in the country.

The Royal Botanical Gardens were established in 1816 by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, but the land's history dates back to 1788. The first crop on the land that would one day be called the Royal Botanical Gardens, was a disappointing harvest of grain. According to the website information, the land was made into a private reserve by Governor Phillips and the grain was planted by his personal servant whose name was Henry Dodd. Over the years, the land was developed and organized by a line of governors. With its first Botanist, Charles Fraser, different varieties of plants and accommodating soils were brought in and the gardens continued to expand. Then, in 1831, the gardens were officially opened to the public and today it is a favorite gathering place in Sydney.

The Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney features many individual gardens, each with its own characteristics. Visit the, Attractions of the Royal Botanical Gardens and you'll find that among the selection of featured gardens is the Rare and Threatened Plants Garden. Visitors can also take look at various plants from all over the world that are facing extinction.

The Succulent Garden offers a leisurely tour through a collection of plant life that thrives in the desert. An abundance of cacti makes its home in that particular garden. Be sure to stroll through the Palm Grove and take in the impressive 140 species of palms that thrive there. The Palace Rose Garden, the Pioneer Garden, and the Rainforest Walk are just a few of the other gardens on display for visitors.

According to the above website, there are other exciting living attractions at the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of which you may spy hanging out at the Palm Grove. The flying-foxes that call Sydney their home can be seen roosting in the palms. These fruit bats create a screeching ruckus that can be heard from all around the garden. Go to, Observations of the Royal Botanical Gardens' Wildlife, and you'll learn that there are flocks of indigenous birds wandering around on the grassy grounds just waiting to be photographed by visitors. In addition, the pond there offers a glimpse of many types of fish, ducks, frogs, snakes, and eels. And perhaps, if you watch closely, you may even see a Rainbow Lorikeet peering at you from overhead.

If you can dedicate enough time walking its scenic grounds, you'll find that the plants and flowers are just the beginning of the living things that make the Royal Botanical Gardens their home.

For more information on the Royal Botanical Gardens of Sydney, Australia visit,

Personal Impressions of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

Information on the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

Background on the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

A Glimpse of the History of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

A Historic Display at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

A Growing Treasure in the Royal Botanical Gardens in Sydney

Information on Mrs. Macquarie's Chair in Sydney

A Look at the Royal Botanical Gardens' Attractions