Krakow Zoo

The Krakow Zoo, established in 1929 in the Wolski Forest, has a rich history dating back to the menagerie at Wawel Castle, where animals such as monkeys and lions were kept. After the royal court moved to Warsaw, the menagerie declined, leading to the creation of new animal collections in the 19th century. The idea of establishing a modern zoo was realized thanks to the efforts of activists from the Krakow Branch of the Nicolaus Copernicus Naturalists' Society, who located the zoo in the picturesque Wolski Forest, near the Camaldolese Monastery. The zoo opened on July 6, 1929, in the presence of President Ignacy Mościcki, and on its inauguration day, it housed 94 mammals, 98 birds, and 12 reptiles. Over the years, the zoo was directed by, among others, Antoni Koziarz, who managed it until 1966, and Józef Skotnicki, with Teresa Grega currently holding the position. The zoo now houses 260 species and approximately 1,500 animals. The total area of the zoo is nearly 17 hectares, and it attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, making it a popular tourist attraction. In 2014, the zoo achieved a breeding success with the hatching of an Andean condor raised by its parents. The Krakow Zoo has also been admitted to the prestigious European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), highlighting its importance in Poland and Europe. Located 8 km from the city center, it is easily accessible by public transport, attracting numerous visitors.