Old Zoo in Poznań

The Old Zoo in Poznań, established in 1871, is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Poland and the world. Located in the Jeżyce district, it spans an area of 5.24 hectares and forms an integral part of the New Zoo. It is the only Polish zoo that has operated continuously since its inception, making it the oldest institution of its kind in the country. Architecturally, it stands out with its historic structures, such as the Grotto, the Old Lion House (now the Museum of Zoo History and the Lion), the Monkey Pavilion, and the Old Aviary, which now houses various species of monkeys. Many of these buildings, like the Grotto constructed in 1906, are examples of vivarium architecture and are listed in the register of historical monuments. The zoo's history dates back to the 1870s, when a small menagerie was created on the initiative of local bowlers who donated animals for the 50th birthday of their club’s president. In 1883, Robert Jaeckel, the first director, contributed to the garden's development by introducing new animal species and organizing cultural events. After World War I and the difficult war years, director Bolesław Cylkowski rebuilt the zoo in 1919, which gained popularity through exhibitions and the introduction of new animals. The Old Zoo witnessed many tragic events during World War II, after which it lay in ruins. The modern Old Zoo, opened as a public park in 2009, focuses on domesticated and exotic species, such as Shetland ponies and lemurs. In 2012, the Pavilion for Cold-Blooded Animals was established, showcasing reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The Museum of Zoo History and the Lion, opened in 2022, offers insights into the garden's past, while notable historical achievements, such as the breeding of blue-and-yellow macaws and radiated tortoises, highlight its importance in species conservation. The zoo was also featured in the film "Hiszpanka" (The Spanish Flu), underscoring its cultural significance.