Feel the soft earth beneath your feet. The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten welcomes you. This isn’t just a petting zoo. It’s a vital piece of Bremen’s history. For centuries the Pauliner Marsch was pastureland. Now it’s a modern sports complex and recreational area. The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten continues that ancient tradition.
Here you’ll find six horses two Shetland ponies two donkeys and three goats. All live in open stables. You might also spot Murmel the black cat or Baba the small black and white tomcat. Wild animals like rabbits ducks geese even newts owls and foxes call this place home too. The children and teenagers of the Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten work hard. They ensure that this large green space stays protected. They help maintain the biodiversity important for both people and animals.
It’s a unique project. It’s not a riding school where you pay for lessons. The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten aims to give children and young people contact with animals. Many city kids lack regular access to animals especially horses. This is a costly leisure activity for many families. This project changes that. It offers opportunities right in the city center.
For the youngest children there are parent-child groups. These groups introduce toddlers under six to Shetland ponies and donkeys. They’re accompanied by their parents. Older children from six onwards can join care groups. They learn about horse and donkey care. They learn how to handle the animals from the ground.
Teenage riders can take on responsibility for a specific horse. They have set days often several per week. They work under supervision of experienced riding instructors. They build relationships with their horse from the ground or in the saddle. The project focuses on the bond between the rider and the animal not just riding lessons. Demand for places is high. They don’t use a waiting list. They select members based on commitment motivation experience and age.
The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten also hosts children’s birthday parties. These parties offer three hours of fun. Children get to know the animals better. They can pet brush and even ride ponies donkeys or larger horses. A typical party starts with introductions to the animals. Then comes brushing and petting. The different brushes and their uses are explained. Depending on wishes children may go for a walk on a small obstacle course on the riding ground. Riding one of the larger horses is a special highlight. The animal program lasts about two hours. There is time for presents cake playing on the island or a treasure hunt. Two or three beer garden sets are available on the pasture. They can be decorated for the birthday.
Remember the weather is a factor. There’s limited covered space. The hut serves primarily as a hay store. In case of bad weather a postponement may be necessary. The project tries to find an alternative date quickly. The facilities have no toilets on the pasture itself.
The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten is a non-profit organization. It depends on membership fees and donations. Its goal is to make sports accessible to all children and young people. Maintaining the project requires funds. Hay equipment upkeep and veterinary care must be covered. Larger purchases require financial support. Donations are collected during open days. These donations support improvements. You can give cash or in-kind donations. A wish list for needed items is posted at the gate.
The Tier- und Landschaftsprojekt Sportgarten is more than just animals. It’s about community. It’s about preserving nature. It’s a place where children learn. It’s a reminder of Bremen’s rich history. It’s a place worth visiting again and again.