About Berlin Zoological Garden
Founded in 1844, Berlin Zoological Garden is Germany’s oldest zoo, and ninth oldest in the world. It started as a private collection of exotic animals, which was in the possession of King Frederick William III of Prussia. After his death, his successors weren’t interested in fauna, so it soon became a public zoo.
Berlin Zoological Garden is located in the southwest corner of renowned Tiergarten park, the biggest and the most popular park in Berlin. Peter Joseph Lenne, famous gardener and landscape architect, designed its wonderful gardens.
When to visit Berlin Zoological Garden
Berlin Zoological Garden is open daily, all year round. You can visit it from 9 AM to 6 PM , and until 4:30 PM in winter season (between 30 October and 27 February). Check the website for changing of the opening hours, various programs and exclusive events. Weekends can be pretty crowded, so try to come on a working day.
Why to visit Berlin Zoological Garden
Today, more than 20,000 animals live here. Berlin Zoological Garden hosts about 1,600 species, as well as Europe’s most modern birdhouse. There’s also a giant Aquarium, with over 9,000 species, and Tierpark, Europe’s largest adventure animal park. The Zoo offers modern, open spaces, which provide good views of the animals.
Highlights of Berlin Zoological Garden are giant pandas, hippos, penguins, great apes and nocturnal animals. Besides rare wild creatures, visitors can enjoy in beautiful scenery and architectural landmarks. For example, the Elephant Gate, which is the main entrance of the Zoo, built in 1899.
Significance of Berlin Zoological Garden
Berlin Zoological Garden holds lots of educational programs and interesting activities for children and families. There are mystery safaris and similar dynamic tours, which provide memorable information. For example, in 1939 there were over 4,000 animals in Berlin Zoological Garden. Only 91 of them survived the Second World War. In later years, there were two zoos in Berlin. One was in East Berlin, and the other one in West part of the city.
Nowadays, Berlin Zoological Garden is among the most modern zoos in the world. It is also the largest one in Europe. More than 3 million people visit it every year. This testifies how dedicated was the management of the Zoo, along with various animals lovers, to the idea of rebuilding the former institution. You should combine your visit with strolling through Tiergarten park, admiring Brandenburger Tor or walking along Unter den Linden Street.
