| And that inverted Bowl we call The Sky, Whereunder crawling coop't we live and die, Lift not thy hands to It for help-for It Rolls impotently on as Thou or I. Fitzgerald (1809-1883) - Omar Khayyam |
The Eden Project
The Eden Project is the largest custom-built visitor attraction in Cornwall. Constructed in a 35 acre crater which was previously a gigantic china clay pit, it first opened to the public in 2001. The Project, which was inspired by Tim Smit the driving force behind the rebirth of 'The Lost Gardens of Heligan', claims to have the largest greenhouses in the world. These are giant geodesic structures made from advanced construction materials. The fundamental message here is about sustainability and man's relationship with and dependence upon plants.
The Humid Tropics biome contains plants from the rainforest and Oceania, whilst the Warm Temperate biome contains plants from the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. The third Outdoor zone contains plants which enjoy the mild Cornish climate. Within these zones are told the stories of the living theatre of plants and people, a vibrant reminder of our place in nature. You will discover the plants found in the products you use every day and understand the ways in which they are being managed for a positive future.
Beside the biomes is an education centre known as The Core, completed in 2005. A Semi-Arid biome, a new Foundation, which will fuse science and art, technology and communication are planned.
This is a major living exhibition of biodiversity and sustainability rather than a garden. However a visit here is uniquely educational and a wonderful experience for students and for those with a thirst for knowledge.
More information may be found on the Eden Project's own web pages.
- Tim Smit books for sale - (this link disabled when Java is blocked)