What is the Eden Project?
The Eden Project is a large environmental attraction in Cornwall, featuring giant dome-shaped greenhouses called biomes. Built in a former clay pit, it opened in 2001 and showcases plants from around the world.
The project was the idea of Tim Smit, who also restored the Lost Gardens of Heligan. It was built in a disused china clay pit near St Austell.
The two main biomes are made of hexagonal and pentagonal plastic panels. The Rainforest Biome is one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world, with a canopy walkway.
Learning about nature
The Mediterranean Biome contains plants from regions such as the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. Outdoor gardens feature plants from temperate climates.
The Eden Project aims to show the connection between people and plants and to promote environmental awareness.
The site hosts concerts, known as the Eden Sessions, and events throughout the year. It also has a zip wire. The Eden Project appeared in the James Bond film Die Another Day. New Eden projects have been planned in other countries.