Picture this Dusseldorf in the late 19th century. A booming city. New buildings rose everywhere. Parks were needed. Enter the Zoopark.
The Zoopark wasn’t just another green space. It had a fascinating start. Founded in 1874 by the Fauna Animal Protection Society it was initially more about zoology and botany than animal welfare. Think of it as a nature science center with animals. A landscape gardener transformed flat land into a beautiful park. Two connected ponds and a restaurant were built. The Zoopark opened in May 1876.
The Zoopark wasn’t as grand as those in Hamburg Berlin or Cologne. But it was beloved for its beauty. Visitors enjoyed shady terraces. A cozy restaurant completed the experience.
The Zoopark even hosted a major industrial and trade exhibition from May to September 1880. Thousands of companies showcased products. Over a million people attended. The animal enclosures were temporarily moved. Paths widened to handle the crowds. Even Kaiser Wilhelm I visited.
Unfortunately the Zoopark faced financial troubles. Public interest waned in the early 20th century. In 1905 the city of Dusseldorf acquired it thanks to a generous donation. The donation came with a condition. The city pledged to preserve the Zoopark forever.
World War I brought devastation. The entire animal population perished. The Zoo restaurant was seized. Despite this the city rebuilt. Dr Aulmann successfully managed to make the Zoopark profitable again.
Today the Zoopark is a treasured green space. There are no animals. A few remnants remain. A sandstone sculpture of an ape stands as a silent reminder. The former Gemsberg hill still shows a few wall remnants. It once held a romantic ruin.
A devastating storm in 2014 damaged the Zoopark. Many trees were lost. The city replanted 48 young trees. But the Zoopark remains. It offers playgrounds and beautiful green spaces. It’s a popular spot for people of all ages. The Zoopark continues to thrive a testament to the city’s commitment to its green spaces.