Alexander von Humboldt
When nature speaks
At the end of the 18th century, the young German scientist Alexander von Humboldt set out to understand nature as a living, interconnected system. During a five-year expedition through Latin America, he measured mountains, collected data on the natural environment and human communities, positioning himself as a pioneer in anthropology. He broke the altitude record on the Chimborazo volcano, which made him a legendary figure in scientific exploration. Upon his return to Europe, he published works such as Voyage aux régions équinoxiales du Nouveau Continent and Cosmos, which revolutionized the study of nature. He was also a pioneer in the Earth’s magnetic field, meteorology and scientific popularization. With liberal and anti-slavery ideas, and linked to figures such as Goethe, Darwin, Jefferson and Tsar Alexander I, he combined science and social commitment like few scientists of his time.
The study of nature
Humboldt demonstrated that plants, animals and climate interact in measurable patterns. He was the first to map vegetation according to altitude and climate, creating the first ecological maps. His vision remains key to understanding ecosystems and climate change.
Humboldt, botany and Marimurtra
He described thousands of plant species and laid the foundations of modern ecology, relating the distribution of plants to the environment. This vision is reflected in Marimurtra, where vegetation is arranged according to ecological and biogeographic criteria, with sustainable management that understands the garden as a living and dynamic system.
Carl Faust and Humboldt
Carl Faust, founder of Marimurtra, owned works by Humboldt and shared his vision of nature as an interconnected network. Although a direct influence cannot be claimed, the garden reflects a common philosophy: research, conservation and dissemination united by scientific knowledge. In fact, Faust dedicated one of the first place names of the Garden to Humboldt.
A look towards the future
Humboldt already warned of the effects of human activity on nature. Marimurtra continues this global vision, promoting biodiversity with sustainable management criteria and offering a living space to understand, love and protect nature.