Artis

Amidst the canals and vibrant streets, discover the captivating tale of Artis Royal Zoo in Amsterdam. Artis has been enchanting visitors since 1838, making it one of the world’s oldest zoos. Founded by Westerman, Werlemann, and Wijsmuller, its Latin name, Natura Artis Magistra, translates to “Nature is the teacher of art and science.” Initially, Artis was a haven for Amsterdam’s wealthy elite, as membership fees were steep. But its popularity soared, reaching 500 members in just one year. Early animal collections included monkeys, birds, an otter, and even a “Surinamese forest cat.” The zoo quickly grew. It integrated Cornelis van Aken’s traveling menagerie, featuring the magnificent elephant Jack. Artis became a prominent zoo, drawing crowds eager to see exotic creatures. The zoo expanded throughout the 19th century, acquiring more land in the Plantage neighborhood. A lush park emerged, with winding paths and vibrant greenery. The Aquarium opened in 1881, becoming an international sensation and a model for other aquariums worldwide. Artis expanded its living and non-living collections. Members with overseas connections helped acquire diverse animals. The museum collections also flourished, leading to the construction of the impressive Groote Museum between 1850 and 1855. By 1900, Artis housed ten museum exhibitions, even hosting concerts in its music kiosk. Artis became an integral part of Amsterdam’s cultural scene, offering high-class entertainment. Though it pursued scientific goals, membership remained a status symbol. The character Batavus Droogstoppel in Max Havelaar’s 1860 novel even boasts of his Artis membership. Under director Coenraad Kerbert, Artis shifted its focus primarily to animals, closing its museums. It became a hub for scientific research and nature conservation. This led to the founding of Vereniging Natuurmonumenten (the Society for Preservation of Nature Monuments in the Netherlands) in 1905. A significant change under Kerbert opened Artis to all Amsterdam residents, intertwining it with the city’s identity. The economic crisis of the 1930s impacted Artis, nearly leading to bankruptcy. The city and province intervened, leasing the zoo back for a nominal fee. This support revitalized Artis, replacing traditional bars and fences with innovative canals and artificial rocks. In 1931, Artis joined a conservation program for the European bison, marking a new era of modern zoo practices. The 20th century brought a renewed focus on animal welfare. Nutrition, care, and enclosures improved, and zoos shifted from mere displays to conservation organizations. Artis partnered with European zoos, participating in species conservation programs. This collaboration led to the creation of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria). In 1988, Artis celebrated its 150th anniversary with the Planetarium’s opening. The Geological Museum followed in 1992, expanding Artis’ focus to encompass all aspects of life, from the Big Bang to present-day species. Artis continued to evolve in the 21st century. It expanded to the Entrepotdok, adding new enclosures, a restaurant, and a service center. Renovations created more space for animals, plants, education, and historical preservation. Many of the zoo’s 26 national monuments were restored. New enclosures were built for elephants, monkeys, gibbons, and lions. Artisplein opened to the public in 2014, welcoming Micropia, the world’s first museum dedicated to microorganisms. The Groote Museum reopened in 2022 after 75 years, highlighting the interconnectedness of humans, animals, plants, and microbes. Artis today is a place where nature and people unite, where all ages can learn and explore. It remains committed to a sustainable future. Amidst our complex world, Artis fosters love and care for nature. It continues to innovate and evolve.