History
Over the course of its history, the zoo’s once small collection of animals has experienced deep crises and glorious international fame, survived destructive war, and developed into the most species-rich zoo in the world.
"Whoever wishes to shape the future must first look back at the past."
Tracing the past
1913
Aquarium Berlin was built under the direction of Dr Oskar Heinroth. At the time, the walk-through Crocodile Hall was one of a kind and a major visitor attraction.
1923
Aquarium Berlin became home to a wider variety of species than any other aquarium in the world.
1943
After a bomb fell on the Crocodile Hall, the Aquarium was almost completely destroyed.
1983
Following many years of reconstruction, the Aquarium was reopened in the presence of Governing Mayor of West Berlin Dr Richard von Weizsäcker.
2014
Under the leadership of Zoo Director Dr Andreas Knieriem, Aquarium Berlin has been enjoying growing popularity. It is home to numerous endangered species, and is the only inland aquarium in the world to successfully breed a variety of jellyfish.
Our book tip
Clemens Maier-Wolthausen
Hauptstadt der Tiere
Die Geschichte des ältesten deutschen Zoos
ISBN: 978-3-96289-040-7
Published: September 2019
