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The arboretum on the Kirchberg plateau can be discovered on foot or bike. Handout photo 

The Kirchberg arboretum is a collection of trees and shrubs from all over Europe which can grow in Luxembourg. Visitors can discover this true botanical encyclopedia on foot or bike, and the collection is quite atypical since it brings together trees and shrubs from all EU member countries which have the ability to adapt to Luxembourg’s climate. Created in 1994 by Fonds Kirchberg, the approximately 30ha grounds were entrusted to landscape architect Peter Latz, who was in charge of collecting tree species and rock samples from the various member states.

The arboretum stretches across Kirchberg’s three public parks, namely Parc Central, Parc Réimerwee and Parc Klosegrënnchen, the latter undoubtedly being the wildest and most secret of the three (it’s located behind the hospital, heading down towards Neudorf). The Natural History Museum in Luxembourg is responsible for the scientific management of the atypical collection, which is constantly expanding and includes more than 500 species and varieties.

Educational panels in four languages guide visitors across the various trees and plants on the grounds. 

The arboretum is freely accessible throughout the year, and guided tours are regularly organised. In 2020, it’s still possible to register for organised visits on 23 September and 21 October (by emailing [email protected] or calling 46 22 40 201).

This article was originally published in French on Paperjam.lu and has been translated and edited for Delano.