The Biblical Garden in Vysoká nad Kysucou is a unique project that combines an arboretum, rose garden, and fruit orchard. It is not only interesting and fragrant but it is also an educational place, showcasing all the plants mentioned in the Bible and other sacred texts.
Establishment of the Garden
The garden was established in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the entrance stands a Covid Column with the inscription: "Heart of Jesus, source of life and our peace, be a safe refuge for your people in times of plague..." All the letters in the text, that is written in latin, which are also Roman numerals are highlighted, and their summed value is 2021. The garden was created under the care of Father František Mikuláš and Mrs. Kamila Gabošová, with selected plant species donated by the Botanical Garden of Comenius University in Bratislava.
Arboretum, Rose Garden, Fruit Orchard
The arboretum focuses on biblical trees and includes the five most significant trees of the Holy Land: grapevine, fig, pomegranate, olive, and palm, as well as other trees like acacia, myrtle, almond, cedars (Lebanese, Himalayan, and Atlas Cedar), fir, mulberry, tamarisk, mastic, brugmansia, and more.
The rose garden contains over 70 types of roses, including the intensely fragrant rose named after Pope John Paul II, which until recently grew only in the Vatican Gardens. The roses are named after saints and notable buildings (e.g., Winchester Cathedral). You’ll also find a heraldic rose with five petals.
The fruit orchard, expected to bear fruit in a few years, is planted with heirloom tree varieties (developed before 1950), including five apple trees, two pear trees, and four plum trees.
Location of the Biblical Garden
The garden is located in the village of Vysoká nad Kysucou (Čadca district), in the village center next to the Church of St. Matthew.
Garden Entry Conditions
- Tours: Guided tours only, so please arrange your visit in advance.
- No picking or damaging plants, capturing or injuring butterflies, or harming wildlife.
- No littering.
- Photography and filming is allowed for personal use; please avoid handling plants or garden equipment.
- Entry is at your own risk; children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The parish of Vysoká nad Kysucou is not liable for injuries or damages during visits.
- Some plants are toxic and may cause allergic reactions or serious health harm. Do not consume their fruits or touch them!
- Open flames are strictly prohibited in the garden.
Recommendation
- Bring a Bible to the Biblical Garden. Plants have labels with their names and scripture references. Experience important biblical stories through trees and shrubs.
- If you do not have your own Bible, you may borrow one at the parish.
Organized Tours Tours are held in summer on Sundays from 2 p.m., lasting approximately an hour or more.
Admission
Admission to the garden is free. You may support the project with a voluntary contribution to help maintain and develop the Biblical Garden, which is cared for by volunteers and the parish priest.
Map:
Photo Gallery:
Emília Maloušová, Štefan Strýček
