Mundenhof

Can you imagine a zoo where the animals roam freely and the entry is always free? That’s the magic of Mundenhof in Freiburg. Mundenhof isn’t just a zoo. It’s a sprawling 38-hectare nature park, the largest animal enclosure in Baden-Württemberg. It’s a place where history whispers from the ancient grounds, where children connect with nature, and where music fills the air during the Zelt-Musik-Festival. Mundenhof’s story begins long before the first peacock strutted across its grounds. In 864, a priest named Rumolt gifted the Muntichova estate, the land that would become Mundenhof, to the Abbey of Saint Gall. For centuries, Mundenhof served as an agricultural estate, passing from the Abbey to the monastery of Günterstal and then to the Grand Duchy of Baden. In 1889, the city of Freiburg purchased a large portion of the land, continuing its agricultural legacy. The city later acquired surrounding land for the Freiburger Rieselfelder, a natural water purification plant operated by Mundenhof residents. This expansion made Mundenhof one of the largest farms in Baden-Württemberg, boasting 400 cows and producing 400,000 liters of milk, alongside thriving pig breeding and crop production. However, the closure of the water purification plant in 1985 forced Mundenhof to adapt. It transitioned into an ecological model farm, providing straw and food for the animals in the enclosure that would soon become its main attraction. The Mundenhof zoo opened its gates in 1968, thanks to the support of then-mayor Eugen Keidel. Unlike traditional zoos, Mundenhof is a Tiergehege, an open-air enclosure where domesticated species from around the world, and a few wild ones, roam freely. The zoo is a haven for endangered domesticated breeds, showcasing around 30 species and 180 animals in total. Peacocks, gibbons, crab-eating macaques, emus, ostriches, alpacas, yaks, llamas, and many other creatures call Mundenhof home. A converted horse barn houses aquariums and terrariums, teeming with aquatic life, all thanks to the dedicated Friends’ Association of Aquariums and Terrariums. As you wander through the interconnected paths of Mundenhof, you’ll discover breathtaking views of Freiburg and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a meal at the Hofwirtschaft restaurant, let the kids explore the playground, or search for storks nesting in the distance. Mundenhof is more than just a zoo. It’s a testament to Freiburg’s commitment to nature, history, and community. It’s a place where learning and fun intertwine. And the best part? This natural wonder is freely accessible, funded by donations and parking fees, ensuring everyone can experience its magic. Mundenhof continues to evolve, with plans for expansion to accommodate the growing number of visitors who flock here to connect with nature and experience the wonder of this unique place.