Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHT
BERLIN ZOO & AQUARIUM
Berlin's zoo holds a triple record as Germany's oldest, most species-rich and most
popular. It was established in 1844 under King Friedrich Wilhelm IV, who donated the
land plus animals from the royal family's private reserve. The menagerie includes or-
angutans, koalas, rhinos, giraffes and penguins. Animals are housed in open enclos-
ures designed to resemble their habitat.
In 2006, the zoo made worldwide headlines with Knuut, the first polar bear cub to
survive past infancy in captivity in over 30 years. Sadly, he collapsed from encephalitis
in 2011 and drowned in the enclosure's pool.
Especially popular are the ffeedin
g sessiions that start at 10.30am with the polar
bears. The California sea lions (3.15pm) usually elicit the biggest cheers.
Budapester Strasse 32; adult/child €13/6.50, with zoo €20/10; 9am-6pm; Zoologischer Garten,
Zoologischer Garten)
presents three floors of exotic fish, amphibians and reptiles in old-
fashioned darkened halls and glowing tanks. Its Crocodile Hall
ding s
dile Hall could be the stuff of
nightmares, but jellyfish, iridescent poison frogs and a real-life 'Nemo' should bring
smiles to most youngsters.
The zoo's architecture also deserves a special mention; a highlight is the exotic
Hardenbergplatz via the Liions' G
' Gate.
