Zootårnet

What if I told you there’s a place in Copenhagen Zoo where you can feel like an eagle, soaring above the city? It’s called Zootårnet, the Zoo Tower, and it’s no ordinary observation deck. Zootårnet, built in 1905, stands tall and proud, offering a breathtaking panorama of Copenhagen. This wooden wonder, inspired by the Eiffel Tower, was designed by Theodor Andreas Hirth, a master of wooden constructions. It reaches 43.5 meters into the sky, placing you 70 meters above sea level at the tower’s peak. Imagine ascending the 182 steps, the anticipation building with each upward stride. As you reach the top of Zootårnet, a stunning vista unfolds. The entire zoo stretches out below, a vibrant tapestry of animal enclosures and lush greenery. Beyond the zoo’s boundaries, the cityscape of Copenhagen emerges, with its iconic towers punctuating the horizon. On a clear day, your gaze can travel even farther, reaching Roskilde and Køge, and even glimpsing the majestic Øresund Bridge. Originally, Zootårnet had an electric elevator for those who preferred a less strenuous ascent. However, it was removed in 1981. Today, the climb is part of the experience, a physical embodiment of reaching new heights. During its renovation in 1996-1998, a steel structure replaced the old elevator shaft, adding stability to the tower. Even in its early days, Zootårnet drew crowds, and its popularity has remained consistent. In 2005, over 40,000 visitors made the climb, a testament to its enduring allure. Zootårnet stands as a symbol of the Copenhagen Zoo, a must-see attraction for any visitor seeking a bird’s-eye view of the city and a unique perspective on the animal kingdom below.