Maksimiri Park is a picturesque green area within the city, with an area of 18 hectares. The park is recognised as the largest city park, and is often referred to as the "Living Monument of Zagreb". Numerous flower beds, alleys, lakes and forest areas can be seen within the park. Zagreb Zoo is also located within the park.
The founder of Maksimir Park is Bishop Maximilian Vrhovac, and the park was named after him. The date of foundation of Maksimir Park is 1794. The park was designed by the English landscape designer Brown.
Within the park there are many monuments and historical objects of Zagreb, built in different styles. Examples are the Echo and Bellevue pavilions built in 1843, the Belvedere, the doorman's hut and the Swiss House. Many sculptures can also be seen in the park.
The Zagreb Botanical Garden originated as a site for botanical research of one of the faculties of the University of Zagreb. The garden was founded by a botanist named Heinz. The total area of the garden is approximately 50 thousand square metres. There are two ponds with many species of aquatic plants. In total, the Botanical Garden has about 1000 different species of plants from all over the world and numerous trees. The architectural ornament of the Botanical Garden is a graceful bridge.
